James, Paris, encloses a review [not present] of George Eliot's Middlemarch for publishing in The Nation and discusses various pieces for publication, including writings on the Parisian stage, Henri Regnault, Auguste Laugel, and a journey in Italy. #6251-ba

Here is another batch of The American copy . There are 30 pages more of the Atlantic to send him, which shall go as soon as possible. #6251-a

Sending herewith all the rest of copy for The American that James has the material for two packets. The last he will have as soon as he receives it. He said he did not expect to see proof himself, but should extremely like to have it sent to his father for final revision. With all hopes for the book's prosperity. #6251-a

Sends Mr. Nelson the last chapter but one: XXXVII of James's serial. #6251-m

Kind of her to find time to write him regarding Major MacDonnell's death, and her inability to receive on Sunday. Sorry it causes her any regrets. Shall come soon and pay his deferred visit. MacDonnell's death is being very kindly noticed. Regards to Mr. Hertz and her daughter. #6251-a

Didn't answer note of the 13th as expected to make reply in person by promising self in Harley Street, but at last minute was prevented. Shall come next Sunday. #6251-a

Has taken a liberty and hastens to confess it. He has given an introduction to him to an Englishman who has gone to stay in Paris: T. G. Child. He is a young journalist ( Pall Mall Gazette , etc.) and though a bit of a Bohemian, and furthermore a Jew, but doesn't feel he is outraging the sanctity of his private life. He is modest, honest, ingenious and excellent. He knows no one in Paris where he has gone to work. Hopes he can let him come and gossip once in a while. Confident of his benevolence. Hopes he has returned. Believes he is philosophic. For himself he is cockneyfied "to a degree," quite naturalized in London. Suits him better than Paris, but hopes to visit the latter with the advent of summer. #6251-c

Bolted from Paris too abruptly to say good-bye. Shall be passing through before long and they can make it up. Back in London, and as cocknefied as if he had never been away. Please send him 4 or 5 numbers of the [ Cenos Parisian ?] if there is any notice of his piece. Also send him Nana so he may do it. #6251-c

Happy to dine with him January 12. Excuse his delay in answering his note, which had to be forwarded. #6251-a

Received his letter of January 5. Has no prospect of being able to contribute anything more to the N.A.R. [ North American Review ?]. Engaged in work which leaves him no time for writing "articles." If he can do anything, will let him hear of it. Afraid a comparison between English and American manners would be too invidious and ticklish a theme, especially while he continues to reside in England. #6251-a

Thanks for note that gratifies and alarms him. Began to hear of vogue of Bundle of Letters in United States, and was glad as assumed demand was being supplied by Parisian with proportionate profit. Heard from father that piratical Loring of Boston was about to bring out pamphlet edition of it. Wrote Harper 's to sell them the American copyright so they may bring out sole authorized edition. Has not posted to Parisian the permanent property of the thing. Same proceeding with Daisy Miller and The International Episode which originally appeared in Cornhill . There was an attempt to pirate them in the United States so he immediately sold copyright to Harper's , who brought them out in little pamphlets which had a great circulation. As Child says he has authorized American edition, afraid he is under impression that James did not reserve the copyright. James understood he was not to publish simultaneously in American periodical, but not in the least that he was not subsequently to republish it. As long as it could be sold simply in Parisian form, he was not happy to stay his hand. Seems he should get what he can for it as a book, even though only 50 pages in paper cover. Loring has committed legal misdemeanor in republishing it as a book without James's consent, anything published by James anywhere. If Harper's accepts his offer, they will proceed against him. Complicates matter that Child's pamphlet should appear. Write and tell him if Child's agent has gone to work before he can be stopped. Thanks for his news. Shall probably be in Paris around March 1. #6251-c

Understands situation. His ultimate property in story would enable him to protect himself legally in America. Assumed Child knew about copyrights there, which would for the moment ensure the sale of the Parisian . James's belief is that as American owner of copyright, he could prosecute for any complete republication, even in a newspaper. James should have inserted at top of the Bundle a notification that American copyright was reserved by the author. If Harper's accepts his offer they may be trusted to supplant everyone else. #6251-c

Greatly obliged to [ New York Times ] and to him, but he is immersed in engagements to write what will occupy him for next twelve months. Work on hand and in prospect makes it impossible for him to undertake anything else. #6251-a

Here is notice of Nana which is longer than he meant it to be. Print it as soon as he can with only three conditions: 1. send him two copy proofs, 2. print it in leaded, 3. send him one-half dozen copies of papers. Will send proofs to American paper in advance to take revenge on all others who would steal from the Parisian . How unnaturally filthy is the book! #6251-c

Thanks for notes regarding novel. Glad it gave him pleasure. Shall do something, yet much better. Shall write publisher to send book to him. It is being well noticed in London. Doesn't it seem pitiful in Paris that the old Vicar of Wakefield , drearily vulgarized, is only a dramatic novelty now? Has moments of Paris reminiscence so acute that he can hardly break off there. Shall not to there before the summer. #6251-c

Returning from Naples, finds her note offering him a pleasure which he is sorry to have missed. Hopes she lost no time in seeking a substitute for office she invited him to fill. Should have been happy to meet distinguished foreigners. Has been abroad since March 1, and is enjoying that peace of mind which Italy alone can give. Excited by the constant bulletins about liberal victories, the magnitude of which quite exceed his dreams. Hopes the party will make a better figure in office than it has lately made in opposition! Finds Italy more Italy than ever, almost a compensation for loss of London hospitalities. Hopes to return in a few weeks to make the acquaintance of her new home, and her daughter. #6251-a

Sorry he shall not have the pleasure of seeing him next week. Leaves town the 23rd to spend Christmas in the country, and will not return until the early part of January. Regrets missing his visit. Expects to start for the continent for an absence of several months, spending winter and spring in Rome. But London is his permanent headquarters, and he constantly returns, so sooner or later they shall meet. Sent his letter to his brothers who will be glad for news of him. #6251-m

Sitting looking down on picturesque port of Genoa. It is Italy! Local color in which the nose is as conscious as the eyes. It smells picturesque! Has been staying at San Remo, after a fortnight in Paris. San Remo is a lovely coast: a supportable form of modified martyrdom, which he feels as he grows older modern travel to be. San Remo more charming even than Provence: a sort of Italian Falmouth. Hope he is happy and healthy, and enjoying Cornish spring, which much be flowery enough. Even in Falmouth he must have jumped at the sound of the horrible Russian bombs. Isn't he glad he is not an Emperor? The thing is too devilish, and he doesn't believe in reforms that begin in deforming. Exempt from Ireland the last two weeks. They know nothing of it in Genoa, and he reads the Times in a hazy, dreamy manner. Will go to Venice, then Rome. #6251-n

Meant to send him a greeting, but America isn't a land of leisure, but it is to a certain extent that of pleasure. Wants to give him a few of his novels, and asks for as many as possible of his own. If he were to relate his adventures and impressions, he wouldn't know where to begin. His adventures chiefly impressions, as he has not been traveling extensively. Spent a month in Boston and on in New York. Rest of time in Washington, D. C., the most interesting of the three. Found friends the Adams's, whose agreeable house is one of the features of Washington. They like Washington better than London because they are, vulgarly speaking, someone here, and are nothing in his complicated kingdom. He and Lady Clark the first Europeans they asked about. Everyone genial and friendly in D.C., and he, too, is "someone" there, and it will be a sacrifice of vanity when he returns to England. But he loves his London better than his vanity and will turn up there in May. Things are fast in D.C., and change in the last ten years incredible. Increase of civilization, wealth, knowledge, taste, etc. is striking. Won't answer for what the county may become in 100 years hence. New York is a brilliant city, but it takes a fortune to enjoy it. Nothing under a million is called a great fortune now. Believes Washington is place in the world where money or its absence matters least. It is informal, familiar, essentially social and conversational, enormously big and yet extremely provincial, indefinably ridiculous yet agreeable. Only place in America where there is no business, where an air of leisure hangs over the streets, where one walks slowly and doesn't look preoccupied. Hasn't seen his minister, Sackville-West, but he appears much liked, and he has a most attractive daughter. Where is he? Hasn't forgotten his scheme to sail to the Cape. Is he rubbing shoulders with the Kaffirs and tossing on a Southern ocean? James is homesick for the chimney pots of London. His sojourn in D.C. is an exile mitigated by optimism. Tell him of Boers and Kaffirs. #6251-n

Speaks of missing the honored shores of old England. His organ of affection is not paralyzed as is fortunate in a country and city which frequently presents that wonderful product of civilization, the American Girl, which flourishes to advantage. Hopes South African voyage will be deferred till it is too late to be discreet. Bayswater seems better adapted to his eminently social nature than the Southern Ocean. Washington D.C. is the latitude of Palermo. It is the possibilities and not the actualities that are striking. In 50 years it will probably be in addition to nation's capital a country of 100 million, and one of the most charming winter resorts. A good deal to be done, but western Congressmen won't vote for such luxuries as improving D. C. Dined with Mr. Blaine, the late Secretary of State. He is in official mourning [for Garfield's death?], and the White House is shrouded in gloom. There is something dramatic in solitary individual lifted into great position by a murder in which he may hear the hovering of the ghosts of Lincoln and Garfield. Has he seen Meredith? #6251-n

Doesn't remember receiving any of her 7 or 8 requests for his autograph, so he responds without delay to the present one, thanking her kindly for the value she attaches to his poor signature. #6251-a

Called on him in a.m. but he had gone out. He has been reviewing his decision about offering his unfortunate little play [ Daisy Miller ] to J.M. Fields. He has received from [Thomas Baily] Aldrich in Paris an urgent appeal to let him have piece to print in The Atlantic January 1. Seems the best thing to do. Aldrich offers $1,000 down. (Would hesitate if Fields accepting price was definite). Sending him "The Point of View. " Will send the "Pension Beaurepas " tomorrow. Has written a "Tale of Cornhill " (55 pages) which will appear in Cornhill . The three might be published in volume of 300 pages for $1.50. "The Point of View " comes out in Century December or January. If he doesn't hear definitely that Field will jump at Daisy Miller , will give it up to Aldrich. 6251-a

Sends him sheets of Cornhill story [ "Siege of London "]. It is important that they shouldn't arrive in America before the 21st of each month, printed in London January or February. #6251-bk

Often thought of him in Scottish Highlands while he is looking at the Paris Opera through rainfall. Speaking of him to John Hays, or with the genial King who convokes them to gorgeous feasts when he is not buying tapestries for Mademoiselle de Pompadour or philandering with Ferdinand Rothschild, who appears unable to live without him. Paris is same old Paris, and he is fond of it. Has been wandering about the Provinces since middle of September. Paris is a good place to work if you know the theatres are dull, restaurants ruinous, the streets all dirt. People pretend to feel very insecure. Government shaky, and lives from day to day. With these drawbacks, Paris is delightful. #6251-n

Will come out to look at her tomorrow, and hopes to find her well afloat again. Telegraph him if engaged. #6251-a

Did he send him a mutilated "Point of View " by accident? #6251-c

Ought to have already replied on Alice's bequest to her correspondence. Went three weeks ago to "Adams Nervine Asylum " at Jamaica Plain. Alice is completely isolated: cannot receive any letters, is allowed to write none, and may see James just once a week. These are the conditions of her cure. Will give Alice her letters when she is restored to the world. Thanks her for her interest in the family and with James's father. Wishes her health and happiness. #6251-bf

Encloses amount of his account for attendance on his father. Asks him to excuse inconvenient form in which he sends it. #6251-a

She probably wishes to be left alone with her sorrow, but he cannot let occasion pass. All the multitudes of her readers there, so English in spite of their changes in sentiment and imagination, to whom her husband's work had brought a deeply valued kind of knowledge. James returned to America 3 months ago, called by the death of his father, but he goes back to England in the summer. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Here is a copy of Daisy Miller , with title-page and directions to the compositor, which are of high importance. #6251-h

Has done to him what demands he make amends and prostrates himself in the dust. Has given note of introduction to him; the bearer is a young man of great intelligence and discretion. Doesn't think he will make his social existence more of a burden. He is Lawrence Godkin, the son of one of his best friends, Edwin Lawrence Godkin, editor of The Evening Post , the first American newspaper, could not refuse the introduction of his son even though he hates giving or taking introductions. Youth will appreciate anything he may do for him. Thanks him in advance. James will sail for England August 22. Must spend summer in United States. Enjoys the light and heat which are a revelation of genial season he has not beheld for many years. He has a cool home all to himself, takes a dozen baths a day, etc. and scribbles a good deal, having contracted to write 2 books. Will send when done. Homesick for London. His festive life seems formidably far off. #6251-m

He has done her one of those injuries which demand an instant apology. Has given a note of introduction to her. The bearer is a very amiable, discreet, intelligent and harmless young man who will neither bother her or bore her. His name is Lawrence Godkin. He is the son of an old friend, a man of much distinction and their most eminent journalist (editor of The Nation ). Has sent youth [Godkin], who is lately from Harvard, over to Europe for a few months. His room is in Bolton. Don't let him cost her any inconvenience but suffer him to feel he may come and see her with certain familiarity. Doesn't know if she actually is in London. Hopes it has been a good year for her, and that she has recovered her strength and spirits. He will remain in America for 2 more months. Has passage to England August 22. #6251-a

Godkin to take this note to Tillyponie. Gives his travel information to Clark's home. Tells him why they will like Godkin. #6251-n

He has done [Sir John Clark] an injury which carries with it an explanation: he has given an introduction to him for the son of his best friend, [Edwin Lawrence Godkin], editor of The Nation . The son, Lawrence, perhaps could visit Clark at Tillyponie. In Boston which he doesn't at all care for, among family cares. Has passage to England August 22. May come to Tillyponie to see him. Temperature in Boston is 96 degrees. #6251-n

Returned to England, and hopes it may be long before he is called upon to perform it again. Relieved to be back to an abundance of engagements, etc. Would like to visit him for 3-4 days. Clarence King is there, and is unspeakable as ever. Doesn't want to see him in Scotland, or ever. He is slippery and elusive. #6251-n

Asks for a little service. Returned from America September 1 where he had been for 9 months. Shortly after he received note from Alphonso Daudet thanking him for article he published in The Century , and asking a question for which he wanted a prompt answer about another article which James translated about him. He gave no address and James's letter was returned from Paris. Asks Child to forward and explain why it's late. James in Scotland, but soon back to old quarters in London. Settled in British Babylon which he is as fond of as Child is of Paris. Will call him when he reaches Paris next. #6251-c

What a dear note from Alphonso [Daudet]. Thanks Child for translating as his French had deteriorated in all his British years. Values his compliment, but it is a terrible thing to live up to. His account of Huntington interesting. Sorry about his illness. Can't his friend Clemenceau do something for him? Or is he exclusively occupied with the national bladder? Tell Huntington that he hopes he not only collects the greatest, but recollects the small. Sorry to have missed Child as he just got back from America September 1. Appreciates his saying that you always remain an outsider in Paris, that's why he clings to London. #6251-c

Tells him of being home again after trip to Tillyponie, and poor maid's fall due to drinking too much. A lot about Mrs. Cavendish. London looking tidy with new wooded pavements, etc. #6251-n

Greatly obliged for his friendly invitation. [Edwin Lawrence] Godkin has made several engagements for him, but he is at liberty Tuesday. It that day is not inconvenient, he will be happy to dine with him, and will present himself at 7 p.m. #6251-a

Excuse the stupidity that compelled her to write second note. He mistook date of her birthday. Kind to give him another chance. #6251-a

Would like to go to Daudet's with him, as doesn't know his address. #6251-c

Date of return to London uncertain, but glad to come March 22 if he is available. It will give him pleasure to make her brother's acquaintance, although he likes to remain a mystery to "ardent admirers." Paris has been charming. Has read a great deal of naturalism. Distance from Paris to London not hundreds, but thousands of miles. #6251-a

Had to leave Paris without looking in on him. Has a charming impression of his months in Paris. London seems like a collection of wigwams. Transition is absurd as he took up the thread of London life, away from the frivolous French. Take notes for him, too. Tell Daudet, if Nana ever comes up, that he loves him. P.S. Shall send him article regarding Turgenoff [Turgenev] as soon as possible. Try to put his hand on small volume of Turgenoff [Turgenev] published in Hachette's little red covered library of translated novels entitled: Scribe de la Vie Ruble [?]. Thinks he has volume in America. #6251-c

Unable to give himself the pleasure of lunching out, since pressed with work, etc. Cannot go into world before 5. Trust to find her after that. #6251-a

He wanted to say more about Miss Bretherton ; he read it with interest and pleasure. Much discussion with specific detailed criticism. Reader has the pleasure of feeling he is with a woman (who is a rare bird!) who knows how to write. The drama of her feelings, heart, soul, etc. seemed a tempting subject. Excuse his hasty harshness. #6251-a

Thanks for answers to his letters. She is a model in the art of talking criticism. Thanks for her offer to go see his sister. It would be a very benevolent act. #6251-a

Has waited to thank her for her kind thought in sending him Jackanapes until he has mastered the precious volumes, so he could come in and express his gratitude in person. She rendered him an excellent service in making him acquainted with Juliana Horatia's little tale. It is a genuine masterpiece, touching beyond anything he has read in a long time. Subject is lovely, and the lightness and grace of touch without effort or mannerism place the thing quite apart. Should like to send her something to testify to his sentiments about Jackanapes , so will send a little book of his just out. May divert her for an hour or two. #6251-m

His letter was a stimulating whiff of Latin civilization, and constitutes one of the occasions when, fond as he is of dirty old London, he envies him. He anguishes the theatric poverty of life in London. Difficult to believe Sarah [Bernhardt] is "among the greatest." She struck him as wanting in interest at times, even bad and false and weak. She has, however, wonderful things in her. Grieves over poor Huntington's condition. Is Goncourt going to publish letters, and are Flaubert's letters coming out? What is divine diminutive Alphonse [Daudet] doing? #6251-c

Her invitation torments him with glimpses of the unattainable. Unable to attend a Ward-Anderson soirée. Sends regrets. #6251-a

Please send editors copies of Literary Remains of the late Henry James or a part of them as follows: Spectator, Atheneum, Academy, Westminster Review, Guardian, Nonconformist . Doesn't wish any sent to daily papers or to The Saturday Review , and for the moment, short list will suffice. Will add more periodicals in a few days. #6251-a

Expects to hear everything over with Huntington. Moral climate of Paris strikes him as so unpleasant. Long discourse on "the little thing" [Daudet]. Poor, dear, fascinating, but rather crapulous little thing! There is in all this a strange smell of decadence! Such an interesting, exciting moment to be in England. People talk about George Eliot's life, just published in three fat volumes by her second husband. Full of deep decency and strenuous labor, and a comfortable English prosperity what is not alluded to is the scandalous Bohemian fact that she lived 25 years conjugally with G. H. Lewes without being married. Dreams of going to Paris, but has unfinished work to conclude. #6251-a

Pressed with work, his correspondence goes to the devil. He is down caring for his ill sister, and missing the London season. A dull health resort, but not dead of it yet. Obstacle in failure of J. R. Osgood and Company, his Boston publisher, by whom he lost a large sum of money. Account of W. H. Huntington touched him greatly. Languishes for new volume of Maupassant. He has had none since Youth . #6251-e

Thanks him for sending Maupassant's novel [ Bel-Ami ?], which he devoured. Shows the gifted, lascivious Guy can write a novel. But what horrors it contained. Strikes him as the history of a cad. Compares him to Victor Hugo: great and absurd. #6251-c

Delayed thanking her for kind note and her present of Mrs. Ewing's last story because he thought he would find time to read little book and give her his impression of it. Shall read Story of a Short Life one of these days, and is sure that charming woman cannot have written anything not felicitous. Hadn't heard of Juliana Horatia Ewing's death. He is in a kind of exile for purpose of spending weeks with his sister who is a "wretched invalid." Hopes fortune will lead him to meet her again. #6251-m

Her invitation finds him out of town and forwarded to him there. He is absent for the season, and won't be available to dine with her. He has been away since April. #6251-a

On the point of leaving town for a month at seaside: Dover, a favorite resort of his. Regrets not being able to visit her. London is stale, stuffy, and deserted. #6251-a

Welcome back to the fine flower of civilization. Come to breakfast without delay. There is a lot he wants to ask him about poor Huntington. #6251-c

Summoned to London suddenly and leaves tomorrow. Disappointed that he shall not see him again. Shall return to Paris A.S.A.P. Tell [Daudet] why he can't see him. Hopes he will have a fruitful winter, and win laurels and shekels from Harper's . #6251-c

Thanks for the " feuilletons ." It is a torment not to see the price, but much as he enjoys his weeks in Paris, he no longer feels deprived and that it is an irreparable loss not to be there as he once did. Has just read the Tartarin : how "the little thing" [Daudet] hates the Anglo-Saxons! Disagreeable impressed with the air of puffery and exaggerations in the supplement of the " Gaulois ." #6251-c

This is his story: Whistler has been with him in company with two Frenchmen, with a desire to show "The Peacock Room "and promised to write her on the subject. Whistler hopes she and Mr. Boughton will lunch with him on Sunday. If they cannot come, they can send document to him. James will not be at lunch as he must return to the country. Hopes she will help show room to the Frenchmen. #6251-a

Delayed writing until he could hunt for a stray, surviving photograph out of the last he had taken long ago. Hunt over, and failed to yield a solitary specimen. But if she has patience, he will send her one of the first cards of the next lot. Soon, because he has mountains of promises. Glad of this sign that she didn't forget her London friends. Hopes spring will bring her to town and that he may meet her on Campden Hill. #6251-a

Has signed cancellation papers sent by Warner and returned one to him as he wished to wind up whole matter. Debit him with cost of stereotype plates and see that they are destroyed. Warner told him of his offer to take The Bostonians , giving James 20%. It is already arranged that Macmillan dispose of book in U.S. #6251-a

Her charming summons finds him in a far, far country, so he fears she has been cursing his heartless silence. His heart flutters at the sign of dear old London friendship and hospitality. He is sitting by yellow Arno, and has literally shut out dazzle of southern sunshine. His imagination takes flight to cozy parlor from which she looks down on tower of Westminster. Abroad after seeing her in November, and hasn't budged from Florence. Shall do so only to go to Venice. #6251-a

Sorry longish absence from England deprives him of seeing him. Doesn't expect to return until midsummer. Should dread the creation of another London club, in addition to thousands already in existence. Want of time to enjoy those drives him to far countries, to get forward to work. However, if he has people with the requisite leisure, wishes him all success. #6251-a

Glad to hear [Aguelin?] was pleased with James's article about him. Didn't think he could read it in English. Pities and envies Child at prospect of moving. Let him know whereabouts! James is to stick close to London this winter. No prospects even of Paris. #6251-c

Won't wait until he sees her to thank her for book. Asks her to add his name to it. Admires composition and moral emotion produced on opening it anywhere. There is an irresistible national passion in it. Good is the company of geniuses. He is struck with the beauty of her introduction. In bound volume, "Series of Letters of Henry James to Mrs. [Alice Stopfard] Green, 1888-1914. "#6251-a

They are both apparently gloomy, but Child's gloom is relieved by the acquisition of charming works of art whereas James's is unrelieved. Doesn't know Frank Harris at all. He is a brutal, young adventurer who was a hotel waiter in America, and has lately married and has a house on Park Lane, spending winters in Rome. Virtual editor of Fortnightly is Reverend John Verschoyle, an odd but energetic Irish parson who pitchforks the magazine together. Shall recall Child was a former contributor. James wrote a long article on Maupassant for March number; will do a Pierre Loti for May, and then a Goncourt and Flaubert. Can't recall any literary or artistic news that will surround the British capital with a halo. There is to be a great new gallery: a schism from the Grosvenor. Is there a III Journal of Goncourt's? He has promised to write on it for the Fortnightly . The great literary event is Mrs. Humphrey Ward's long religious novel. It is quite remarkable. #6251-c

His proposal hospitable and will come at 7:30 with pleasure. He wants to ask if he has any original drawings he made for Harper's . James has been asked to do an article on artists over there who ornamented those pages, and George Henry Boughton is one of them. Should like to take a squint at designs and ask him questions. What a charming portrait [Zaduna?] has made of him. #6251-a

Really a pretty present, and groups brings back happy day and delightful people. Glad an honorable accident placed him there in a sympathetic trio with her mother and her. Seems to hear Mr. G. say something ingenious regarding the Hittites or the moral beauty of the Welshman-conformists. She must have been shocked by Matthew Arnold's death as all have been, and particularly glad of the day he had lately spent with her in so happy a mood. James went to funeral. The place of burial being a charming, old English nook, but was spoiled by dreary weather. Friendliest remembrance to Lady de Rothschild. #6251-y

Ways of Britons are not fast and furious and his invitation has just come from the Reform Club. Act upon it immediately and he will attend to renewal. Has been shut up by slight attack of pleurisy for week. Essentially better, but he should go to the Reform without James and enter boldly, mentioning his name to the porter. He will not cast him out. The first hour he goes out will look for him there; the library is a charming asylum; food is not peerless nor is it vile. #6251-a

She and her husband are most munificent, and the charming eggs arrived in perfect condition. Kind that they remembered him, and hopes time not distant when he can tell them so face to face. Pheasants' eggs belong to a class of edible that he adores; he almost lives by eggs alone. What a jolly industry to produce such nice things and do such nice things to them. #6251-a

Told she would appreciate an autograph and she is heartily welcome to the enclosed. #6251-a

Does not have a photograph of himself for her, but can provide a signature. #6251-a

Happy to say he shall be able to dine with them on Friday the 13th. Thought she had achieved in her book so much reality as well as so much beauty. Most interesting to him is that she has seen a personal history in the richest and most interesting way, and it is a great success! The interest of any novel is as a view of the world, and her view is great enough. He congratulates her. #6251-a

He wrote magnificent letter. Hasn't answered as didn't think it fair to send back the ball so soon. Has brave scruples writing him even now, and so only if he takes no notice of his barely decipherable words. His various communications interested him in only most irresponsible and irresponsive way. James is writing in odd hour of visit to the continent. Absent from London for six months or so, three of which he will spend in Paris. Wrote to Gilder answering his query about James's promised but procrastinated Daumier. Shall have it as soon as James gets back to London. Afraid it will not be as soon as then that he shall bask in luxurious moral consciousness of copyright. Sorry not feasible to treat silly Lord Sackville's silly innocence in United States as if it were only amusing. Would have finished him with own government. There is something so ugly in Bayard's coming round to a pretended horror to please the clumsy, blundering monster. Johnson's scale continues to stagger and almost scare him. He is a profuse periodical. Hopes all enterprises have brought rewards he looked for. Afraid he hasn't any London news after 15 months there without absence, except that [Edmund] Gosse has, since his father's death, discovered he is an American of high and historical degree. Johnson ought to raise his salary. Hopes he doesn't have to be ill to come to Europe, for he desires him to return. #6251-a

Talks about Curtis' social life and his own unsociableness. Abroad only to do quiet work, etc. Doesn't trust himself in cities where he is known. He begins a long serial in the Atlantic Monthly for January and little is written, so he can only have a little dip in Italy and not the Barbaro. #6251-ag

Should have thanked him for sending awful facts. Found Genoa a good place to scribble in for the printer. Found comfort and quiet. Only in Italy a fortnight. Impossible to make a dash for Venice. Will get home by December 20. If he spends winter with concentration, maybe able to return to Italy by April 1. Then shall see him and will be removed from the odious London season. Sorry not be have seen Symonds. James not in Monte Carlo for 19 years, and finds the place exquisite, but how vulgar the stamp of modern Paris. #6251-ag

Apologizes for his long silence regarding her beautiful book [ Robert Elsmere ?]. He has read two volumes and sent third to his sisters, as he had promised to write an article on Pierre Loti, and must re-read him from beginning to end. Her book has great rare beauty, and is a very distinguished production. Book abounds in life. Shall have more to say. #6251-a

Encloses with thanks a receipt. #6251-a

Grateful for his invitation, but it finds him considerably embarrassed. Brother is coming from America, and tied up with others too. Sorry to miss the party. #6251-a

Indignant at gross mutilation in this month's Harper's on the combined integrity of Daudet and himself. Moved to write a few words of disavowal to author of Port Tarascon , but Daudet should think James had a hand in inqualifiable trick. But has forgotten Daudet's number. Asks him to close and address letter. Hopes he has returned from the Antipodes. Hopes for Paris in fall if he doesn't take too much Italy now. But he can't take enough ever! #6251-c

Address takes up one half of paper. This is rest and peace and coolness and vast violet views. Too constant perspiration to write. Wrote Mrs. Curtis from Siena, which was delightful. Returned to Florence, and started off again in quest of out of the way picturesque, but heat intense and inns dirty and he was ready to collapse at Perugia. Back to Florence until end of the month. Tells of his inn, which was a convent. Worth his while to visit; it is a good sort of place for Mrs. Curtis. James contends a man may worry through an English winter with a few precautions, but to face an English summer, the stoutest heart, constitution, and boots are required. Glad they are seeing London life. Mrs. Jack has asked him to the Barbaro. Expects to be back by August 15. #6251-ag

Touched by his kind invitation, and would accept if he could do what he liked. Will go to Venice August 4th for five days. Then must start for London as his leave of absence has more than expired. Sorry not to enjoy his hospitality. He is determined to come back to Italy soon, and promises to visit. #6251-a

Has engagement near Victoria Station, and tells him where to await him and then they may go easily to Mrs. Humphrey Ward's. #6251-a

Made his renewal at the Atheneum all right today. Let them dine there Friday. #6251-a

Would have come to her party, but goes to Paris for a month. Thanks her for her interest in all his criticism of her book. #6251-a

Tells her where he is living, and that he cannot go abroad as sister too ill to leave her. As years go on, he gets less of his beloved Italy. Life is so damnably short; always waiting for make-up years. They will certainly go to India, as they are out for all adventures. He always supposed India the greatest of all earthly impressions. Even the banality of English illusion to it has not dulled his curiosity. Envies most Prince [Ralph?]. Apropos of Princes is their incurable vulgar frivolity, as displayed in Baccaret scandal. James finds Mrs. Orr's biography of Robert Browning [ Life and Letters of Robert Browning ] dismal. What sticks out is that he had little life apart from his work, which drained him of distinction, but not of strength. Longs for Venice. Longs to hear that the worry of lawsuit has bored itself to death. Tells of when and how his drama will be produced in London. Will have as his heroine, Miss Robins, an American who made an immense hit in Hedda Gabler . #6251-ag

Sorry about his accident. Heard rumors of his coming to London for treatment. He has been struggling through a dim London season. Hopes he has been free of the plague which is depressing. His sister declines and soon will have her release. Many friends have influenza and [John] Hay is very ill. Loveliest of Washingtonians, Mrs. Don Cameron, visited him in his den of a seedy bachelor. Speaks of other friends by name. #6251-n

Called to Germany week ago by death of American friend. Will return to the peace and obscurity of De Vere Gardens. Delighted he is better. Can't do much with the Germans, who are somehow not in his line. One must really know them or leave them alone. They are ugly and mighty. Lots of future, but an intolerable present. Likes [Henry] Adams, but suffers from his monotonous pessimism. He is what he should like to have been: a man of wealth and leisure, able to satisfy all his curiosities. Wishes he could have had at Tillyponie his old friend, John La Farge, one of the most extraordinary and agreeable of men. He has been traveling with Adams, and he wonders how either could fail to murder the other. #6251-n

Thanks for her letter and for going to poor, dear The American , and her interest in his condition. The play is doing very well. #6251-a

The good boxes for The American have been disposed of for tonight, save one which will be returned at six and placed at his disposition. Should like to say qualifying things regarding play, especially fourth act. Has done it with all its imperfections. One of these is the sad fact that no less than four of the men are very bad: too good natured and accepted members of Compton's provincial company. They are grievous weight to carry; they give too much of the piece away. #6251-ao

How charming her note and how small his service. Kimloch Cooke asked him to speak of her in a page, and he took two. It is meager and trivial. Her telling him he has not been offensive in criticism is full of satisfaction to him. Has read two volumes [of The History of David Grieve ] and will see her when finished with him. #6251-a

Regarding her flowers and sympathy in the loss of his sister. She was remarkable, and her death makes a great difference in his existence. #6251-a

A note to thank her again for her sympathy. His sister was his nearest and dearest relative. #6251-a

Committed to go to Oxford for the day, so deprives him of pleasure of dining with her, and hearing her lecture. The heart of man is an abyss. #6251-a

No prospects in being in London for six to eight weeks. Enjoying Italy much more than he deserves. Why do they never come to Italy when he is there? #6251-a

She makes him regret he is in a far country, even though he is in such a lovely one. Came to Italy a week ago, and is abroad for rest of the summer, so deprived of her hospitality. Express his regret to General Palmer. Describes beauties of Loseley. It is a dream with blue mountains without and old pictures within. He knew and loved Loseley at one time. Hopes their new house is a joy. #6251-a

Out of the way when he gives him a sign. Spending summer abroad. Left London June 1st. Sorry to miss him. Would have enjoyed his report on [William Dean] Howells and [Robert Louis Stevenson]. If Osborne would only write over his own signature and not over Stevenson's. Always in London in autumn. #6251-a

Sorry to be so curt regarding article on Douglas [Bounret?], but the conditions surrounding him make it difficult to write. Requires to see all of his works afresh. Doesn't know when he will be in Paris next and thus must decline. Wishes The Century wasn't so much a picture book. Excuse his blasphemies against his beautiful woodcuts. Remind him kindly to Gilder. #6251-as

Don't think him an uncivil brute for having kept the sacred scroll so long. He couldn't bring himself to accede to M. de Gubornatis. He hates giving autographs and signing testimonials, but didn't want to look churlish, so he waited for the gods to interfere. They haven't so he inscribed three idiotic words. Wouldn't have done so if her name had not been on page. #6251-a

Kind of her to send him a copy of Frank Peabody's address on good old Doctor, which he though remarkably eloquent and of perfect veracity. Writes from spot where such good New Englandisms seem too far away. On way, reluctantly, back to London after three months abroad. Usually fights to be shy of it during June and July, but this year has to sacrifice to obligation. Almost congratulates her at not being there as usual. Pleasure at Boughton's to talk to you of old Albany names and memories. #6251-d

Pleased to accept for June 17. Nothing to swagger about, but to be the confident of her achievements. Shall try to persuade her that her human defaillances don't matter. #6251-a

Out of town; sorry to miss him. London quiet now with its complication, as impossible time in Rome in the spring turned out to be. Never got to Italy though spent three months abroad. Regrets not meeting his daughter, but as he is placing her in England, it is only a pleasure postponed. Doesn't expect him at James' sordid seaside. Hopes for his speedy return at a calmer hour. #6251-a

Glad to hear from him even though painful duty devolves on him. His sending Marchesa Theodoli's little proverb and his plea for it do a real honor to the high principal of sympathy within him. The greater pity that the case should not be intrinsically for him. Virtue never deserves attention: it only deserves paradise. Madame T. may get a slice of latter for her little play, but she would be ill-advised to bid for the former. The little art is much more difficult and special than she can suspect. These would not be a ghost of a chance that this little piece or anything like it should reach the footlights. No woman should ever write a play because it hasn't the scenic quality. There is no chance for one act things. Hates to have to say such things. The lady's novel was very pretty, and she will do that sort of thing more profitably. Glad of his reappearance. Talks of the Swiss and the French, and his early summer at Lucerne. #6251-a

Brewster is a Gallo American in all the force of the term, for he combines the grand idiosyncrasies of both types (his failure to give an address and his faith in the Swiss post). Sorry Brewster came and didn't see James. He has stuck fast to the squalid shore, refreshed by its climate. Glad Brewster will return in October. Will be in London then. Delighted to hear of his book and watches for it. Has he read Le Dottine Pascal which he has just lain down? #6251-a

Sees by paper Ceslialonia reached Boston, and supposes she will have called Cambridge according to her intention. Hopes there will be no delay in receiving an answer. Regrets not being able to help her. Leaves town for three weeks, but send word if he can do more. Will be in Whitby, Yorkshire. Envies her the lovely Lynton. #6251-aq

Shall be delighted to see him. Come to lunch Friday if he is free. Pleasantest way to see him. #6251-a

How shall he dress up his inability to undertake the job regarding Browning , which he does him the honor to propose? It would be insurmountably difficult to give the time. He is more pressed and preoccupied than he has ever been in his life. Sorry, because project would be full of charms. He is flattered to be asked, and glad of his wife's progress. She will be better when the child is born. #6251-a

Has kept relics of Marcella [by Mrs. Humphrey Ward] longer than he meant to, but now returns. Read with liveliest interest. She is only British Romancer he can read. Doesn't count Robert Louis Stevenson as he is Scotch. It is a rich and luminous chronicle. Found it absolutely interesting, in spite of things he doesn't conciliate fondness for. It's a lovely novel he desires to keep her up to the mark, and up to the market. Excuse his crudity. #6251-a

James claims the enclosure came from a heartless tradesman, accompanying his manuscript. Will show it at the earliest opportunity to Heinemann or through him to Gosse. Doesn't know how the question of shortness can be gotten over. #6251-a

No good news from him. Gosse assures him no use in offering any publication of a manuscript less than 50,000 words. His manuscript contains at the most 15,000 words. English magazines want 6-7,000 words. Slender physique of his little offshoot a grave obstacle to place it. Suggests how he can add dialogues, etc. Nothing would induce him to shoot with Brewster save reflection he would kill Brewster first. Charming of him to see something in The Lessons of the Master . His slow journey to Rome suggests pleasure. P.S. Since registered mail will not reach him in time, he is sending proofs in ordinary form. #6251-a

Thanks for remembrance and cordial wishes for present and future peace and plenty! #6251-a

Remind him again of his real address, which he has lost, so he may name a day Brewster can visit him. #6251-a

Has been in Paris for last two months. Leaves for Lucerne, and will be back in London in June, but in some burrow in the country where people are not, but doubts if it is anywhere on the globe! Will miss her hospitality. Hope she is near her last rehearsals. When back he will knock on the stage door. Hopes she is sound and safe. Blesses her. #6251-a

Appreciates her reaching Venice so soon. Wired to see if he can help her. Doesn't know why Miss Woolson [Grace Carter's sister] died. Mrs. Benedict's cable was a bolt out of the blue. Wants to hear of need before he comes. American Consul is one who could help. Funeral in Rome. Sends heartiest sympathy. #6251-a

Excuse his involuntary silence. Not able to see her this p.m. Had sudden call to go to Venice because of friend's death, and one of his servants fell dangerously ill. So worried that he could not write her sooner. May not have to go to Venice and will see her. #6251-a

Grateful for long letter telling of what she has been through in way of tension, etc. Unquestionably, Woolson became insane under influence of illness and fever. She was intensely unhappy. Bad case of flu led to depression, etc., and then the last irresponsible act. She left no unfinished manuscripts. Wired Hay to send quantities of flowers on his behalf. #6251-a

James is a relaxed, flaccid Venetian, and Brewster is a high-toned Roman. Should have returned his manuscript but thought Brewster wanted him to hold on to it. Can he bring it to Rome the end of next month? Took his quatiere for 3-4 months. Wants to see Brewster. #6251-a

Wishes he could say definitely how long he will be in Venice, but left England to escape dates, pledges, etc. Cannot stir until he finishes piece of work promised for June 1. Shall forfeit money if he doesn't fulfill pledge. Maybe he can finish it by 20th. Anglo-American entering places full of unoccupied people from whom he must dodge, etc. The Statuette full of beauty, interest, perception. Sending it back. Much discussion of his book. Art for him is conduct, and conduct art, aren't they? #6251-a

If he is not in Rome, delighted to come to her party. But will have another month in Italy. [Letter is torn and some words are missing] #6251-a

Sorry to be in Italy, so far from her kindness. He is not hiding in London, but almost flaunting in Venice, much touched by the memory of her hospitality. Wishes he could fly back and partake of that and sneak away again. Congratulates her on husband's redomestication. Hopes he is laden with laurels and shekels; James knows he is. James's recollections of her music room gives him the first homesick moment in 2 months. There is music every day on the Grand Canal. #6251-a

Note on back of envelope in Henry James' hand. Discusses Miss Woolson's final days and Mrs. Benedict and Clare's long visit with him. Talks of Venice, etc. #6251-a

Discusses Warren and writing him about Brewster, and visiting Warren with his daughter. Stayed for night in Rome, so great was the charm; three days in Naples; three more in Rome. Had influenza in Florence, and plans on staying there until first days of July. #6251-a

Shall be in London in September before Cornwall. Glad to get out of grey London August. Couldn't face American horde in Switzerland so left. Tells of slow life in London summer; mentions whom he has seen. Mrs. Gardner more comfortably charming than he has ever seen her. Spent day with all the Kiplings: likes Papa best. #6251-ag

Glad to be able to tell him he told him so. Tell Arthur Benson, too! He knew that guileless morning in Victoria the purgatory into which they were rushing: the Inn, rain, Germans, impossible room, etc. Hope deferred, money misspent. Meanwhile, he looks out at his nice, inexpensive English rain thanking God that he is not as Gosse and Benson are. Spent 3 days with W. E. Norris on way down at Torquay with which to fall in love. Sorry to hear of his friend's suffering by The Saturday Review . He hasn't seen it for fifteen years. Wants to settle down in London but can't until he closes unspeakable Lord Ormont [Lord Ormont and his Aminta by George Meredith] with furious bang. Only finished first volume. He has a dictated letter from R.L.S. [Robert Louis Stevenson] saying his spirits are low. He has been on excursion on an English man-of-war. He shall see his melancholy words when he returns. James must keep it to answer. [Paul] Bourget and wife are at Oxford again. It is the Norman conquest beginning afresh. [Bourget] has sent 100 pp. of his Outremer which are singularly agreeable and lively. It will be much the prettiest and kindest socio-psychological study written about the United States. That is saying little. It is very loving and interesting. Prevost's fetid etude on the little girls represent a perfect bound from his earlier things in the way of hard, firm, knowing ability. So clever and so common. No ability to imagine his "queenly" girl made to dominate the world. Pity's akin to love, so sends that to Mrs. Nelly and to A. Benson. #6251-m

The little cochonnerie of the Figaro is worthy of the odious sheet. I return it with precipitation and not help so the fabulous, the unfathomable, the utterly staggering "Yours." He is the "Problem of the Age." No, it utterly baffles yours, and is daily more and more bewildered. #6251-bn

Sending her three volumes of Anatole France. Read the Le Lys Rouge first: it has an element of ever mercenary eroticism, ugly in so beautiful a talent. La Rôtisserie de la Reine Pédauque is a pure pearl, and Les Opinions de Jérome Coignard is a sequel to that. Anatole France is a rare writer. Hopes her domestic alternatives have all gone to one side or the other. #6251-a

Will do his best at the St. James's on January 5 with pleasure, but he only has limited power at his disposal, with only a pleading voice with regard to the others. Hears the demand for seats is in great excess of the supply. Advises that he write to the box office for a stall and then he will back up his name for preference to be given to him. Can't promise anything because the manager is supreme; the poor author hobbles behind. Sorry to miss him the other day as he has been immersed in rehearsals. But come and lunch some day soon. Will write if he can do anything for him. #6251-bd

Do you care to go with me to the dress rehearsal of Ibsen's Little Eyolf ? If so, join me at 2:15 in the vestibule of the theatre with many others and shall bare tickets for you. An extra one has been given me and you are very welcome to it. Send me a "yes" if you can. Sorry to miss you. #6251-bd

Will you verify a place Saturday night at the St. James's in my box? Heard from the theatre that they have been utterly unable to send you a stall. There are hundreds of pressing applicants unserved. But will be glad if he sat in his box if he will say "Yea." James will keep a place for him. James will not be there as he shall be much too nervous. But Mrs. Charles Lawrence will be there. He only needs to say at the door "Show me to Mr. James's box please," and he will be taken. They have been instructed. Please come as he will be very glad. #6251-bd

Doesn't for the life of him remember if he wrote yesterday that all Ainslie had to do at the St. James is ask for James's box. No ticket necessary. #6251-bd

His flattering dream is beautiful, but, alas, delusion. The root of the libretto is not for him. He is unlyrical, unmusical, unrhythmical, unmanageable, but he hates old New England stories, which are lean or pale or poor or ugly, but they will talk. Embraces him for friendship, confidence, etc; and congratulates him on his glorious wife. #6251-a

Will be a pleasure to join her for lunch. Thanks her for kind remark about his little play. The theatre is a "black abyss." #6251-a

Thanks for the kind and friendly words. James has, thank heaven, a great friend of philosophy. But the theatre is a black abyss. #6251-a

Thanks for her letter. The theatre is plainly and frankly speaking, such an abyss of vulgarity and platitude. The misfortune would have been to have coincided so fatally with its poverties. Only place he wishes to stay is his own house, where he can sit by the fire and read her noble and civilized history. Wants to see her for better talk, and larger effusion of gratitude. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Shall not be in London March 17 to dine with him. Goes to Ireland on the 7th for 3 weeks. Recalls tenderly his letter from Glasgow, and recalls even more tenderly images of Mrs. Henschel. #6251-a

It is hideously fatal: he is engaged on Wednesday. He is very, very sorry; it is very, very miserable. Could come if he is finished the 8 o'clock dinner at a decent hour. #6251-a

Will wait until after the 24th. His visitors prolonging their stay. Reasons why they can or cannot visit her. Likes Trilby as much as he can like a book destitute of "Art. " Du Maurier is a great friend of his, and he likes the book partly because he loves the man, and wants to like what he does. They probably agree, or would if she knew the dear man. Wishes her a "happy Folkestone" and a punctual return. #6251-a

Thanks her for delightful letter. Testimony of that kind is immense help and reward. With him and Lord Acton is different palaces, surely the country is doing well. How much she must be straying back from Chamberlain to Pericles. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Sorry about the [Duke] question, but it was his fault. When James first declined he has seen her so little. Now that she has been giving James a chance the void has been made up, and have felt rather prepared or inspired. She has been acting here for three weeks very exquisitely. James, though, does not want to write about her, for he is woefully weary of the all-invasive theatre, with its cheapness of criticism, its overestimated art, a vulgarity of air, and is delighted to surrender the task to someone who does want do deal with it. Very sorry that he can't write the little article. Criticizes the nature of plays, of the ridiculous abandonment of all proposition or perspective in the worship of the actors and actresses, and in English speaking countries the total absence of dramatic authors. In France the actors are kept in their place. Simply cannot write article for all sorts of reasons. #6251-as

Great pleasure to have news of her. Next Thursday James goes to poor Huxley's funeral in country at 3. If he gets back in time will knock on her door. On Friday he leaves London for three months. #6251-m

Yesterday was impossible; he was utterly overcome. Had to go to Hastings funeral and universal fiesta of July 4th at American Embassy until 6:30. Please accept his belated regrets. #6251-m

Shall be delighted to make acquaintance of her gardens and groves, shores and seas, at an early day. Perhaps Norris will show him the way. Her initiation is graceful, but his misanthropy has limits which will become definite as he approaches her abode. #6251-a

Accept and offer to Mrs. Waring his friendliest congratulations. #6251-a

Sympathy letter about the loss of Brewster's wife. James deeply touched by loss of such a fine personality, and the changes that will come to Brewster's life. Glad he is coming to London so he can see him. In prettiest place in England, really exquisite and quiet. Wonders if by chance he could come down for a few days. Paul Bourget has been there a month. Shall never forget Brewster's wife's singular grace and quality. #6251-a

Bless the girl who is very welcome to his ugly autograph, and encloses two words for her with pleasure. She has been the cause of Robins writing James. Glad she is among the lakes and the fells, and she sounds healthy and hearty and happy. Torquay is delightfully tepid and tranquil. Will stay until November 1 then to town until spring. As soon as he arrives, will bound up her turret stairs; beseeches her to have all sorts of wonders to tell him. Hopes she is having a supreme September and that October won't break the charm. With envelope addressed to "Miss Hope Clement." #6251-d

Father and he cannot tell a lie. Is out of town until November 12. His rooms are being refurbished, and he has nowhere to lay his head for three weeks. Besides, Torquay is lovely. Lovely, too, is her kind invitation, but he is 150 miles away. Blessing to know she is restored to London. Will come to see her when he gets back. Hearty greetings to Henschels and the child. #6251-m

Still away, but returns early in month and she will too. Regrets missing her sister and M. Lawless. Hopes her pressure slackens or her inspiration rushes. They must have more crafty talk. Leaving sweet place, perfect for the craft. Better than Stocks. #6251-a

Hopes to come tomorrow at 5 when he will thank her profusely for her delightful remarks about his small story. It was suggested by a perusal of J. Dykes Campbell's Life of Coleridge , but difficult to do successfully anything so foreshortened. Has all his sympathy for her French armful. #6251-a

Small book turned up and he is sending by post, and she is not to thank him for it or to dream of answering this. Plenty of time when they meet. What days we live in, but they are getting better. Original in Terminations : Barrett PS 2116. T4 1895c copy 2. #6251-a

She is very happy to have two lyric gifts in such charming freshness, and generous and gracious to use to make her greetings. Her friends were proud. He can only thank her in plain, flat prose, and wish her all the felicity that she may contain in Sicily, and that it strikes the golden note at once. May her travels have as many pleasant turns as her verses. Before she starts, he shall have got at her story in Y.B. He is glad she is keeping him in countenance. #6251-a

Thanks her for gift of silver box. Just writing Clare Benedict who also sent gift. May New York be easy for her and may she be at peace regarding her sister. He is in London until May and then to Torquay. Watch over Benedicts, and tell him about them. #6251-a

Introducing Mrs. [Alice Stopford] Green and the brilliant historical work she is associated with; she is one of the most accomplished women in London: she is most hospitable and his very kind friend for many years. Asks her to befriend Alice when she arrives. #6251-ah

Silent since hearing from her from Ceylon. Their adventures are a fairy tale, even before Egypt. He hasn't put his nose out of London since May 1, and this year there is to be no Italy. Impossible even if he wanted to go. He has taken a cottage in Sussex for the next few months. He likes them to be back at the Barbaro as he likes Italian news better than Oriental. Tells of giving letter to Mrs. [Alice Stopford] Green to introduce her to them. International tension has relaxed, and he no longer dreads opening the Times . #6251-ag

His letter covers him with shame. Will tell Brewster why when he arrives. Asks for his schedule so he can embrace him at station. #6251-a

For the present he is very far off. Established in that obscure corner for the summer since May 1. Nearly three hours from town. Much tied to a belated job, so cannot jump at the chance to see her. Regrets the privation; doesn't know when he shall risk his neck or his philosophy in London. Think of him in a vicarage. Obliged to give up his delicious little perch. Needs all her prayers. Trusts she is painless and peaceful. Taken the vicarage at Rye for August. Is in desperate need of her prayers. #6251-a

Hard to deliver another invitation to "Stocks. " Sticks fast until the end of the month, when he is committed to spending October at Torquay, at which seeing her is close at hand. Hopes November brings her back to town. Her being so much better wandered into his solitude, and made it flutter. Sees Sir [George] Tressaday is at his door. If she listens hard enough she may catch echo of intellectual revel of his visit. Has promised two shortish novels of the pot-boiling order essentially for which serious work had to be interrupted. He has done three, but that only swells the smallness. From the matchless pride of "Stocks," pity him. #6251-a

Thanks for obtaining "mobile" for him. He longs for a pied-a-terre in Venice. Yearning for Italy is a perpetual torment. Wishes for a six-month alternative to London from May to November. Lists possible places to spend it. Italy is in his heart. He must again be on terms with her, but he must be patient. His quiet summer of English-Irish country was a great success. Reenters her orbit, and lives a little through her vivid communications. #6251-ag

Owed her for letter, and now for original memento. Hopes she is enjoying New York. Sure she is still ministering angel to Benedicto. Tells of his own activities. Four female cousins with him. April 1 he will return to Italy. #6251-ac

Her letter is too delightful to be answered this way. Shall come next Thursday and express his appreciation. Responds heartily to her dismay and despair for the dreadful Daniel who is the ruin of the effect of Miss [Elizabeth] Robins really. He is the ruin of her admirable art: a hideous, helpless idiot. The whole thing is so irremediable that he never spoke of it to her as he didn't wish to add to her various grounds of difficulty and depression. #6251-a

Horribly and nervously pressed with some unfinished work. Will not have rounded up his job by April 3. Possibly a week later. Will see Mrs. Green whom he shall be too sorry to lose, and thrash out with her a solution. #6251-a

Delayed acknowledging volume of Elegant Extracts , the genial sequel to their talk after Barrie's [J.M. Barrie?] dinner. Reduced by infirmity to dictating. Has read over Beaconsfield [Disraeli] morsels with all softening of the heart that he should like to exhibit to him. Doesn't find sort of thing that strikes him as great distinction in specimen. Fond of thing itself: the literary thing that confesses to "offishness" from those who mixed it up with other forms. Is returning a volume for his volume. Thanks him for solid volume of good reading. #6251-a

Shall do books, also something regarding poor Mrs. Oliphant, so remarkable in her way, who just died. He has dodged the whole Jubiliee business, and came down there right after seeing him. Has read Nelso in the Weekly in Paris with lively profit and attention; he flashes some light on a baffling subject. P.S. Has no sign nor sound of [W. D.] Howells, but James waits and waits. #6251-a

Pleasant to have his news. Tells of his own visits in the brave old Border country and Marmion, and sleeping where James IV of Scotland slept before ill-fated battle. Returns to town and invites him to tea at Grosvenor Club. #6251-a

Thanks her for elegant calendar. Her note says she is making out not badly. He likes Paris, but doesn't get so much of it as he used to. Hopes to go there day after tomorrow, and to find her there. Hasn't heard of Benedicts for ages. He has been away from Paris for 3 years. He hates the foreign quarter. #6251-ac

Having a grave, gloomy, quiet London Christmas, as has had a visit from the melancholy. Will go to Liverpool on 31st, Boxing Day and Bank Holiday combined. Into 4th year since last crossing Channel. Resigns himself to not traveling, but then has frenzy of desire to start off to Italy. Tells of two years ago falling in love with little old home at Rye, and acquiring it on long lease. Wishes she were there to accompany him on a rummage. Is doing a room for her and for Louise, and hopes they will visit. Talks of her American journey and fortnight in Santa Fe. Come and tell him about it. Talks of Lord and Lady Playfair, etc. Thanks for account of monument to Miss Ticknor. Make him a sign to let him expect her coming. #6251-a

Sympathy letter. Tells his feelings and activities, family visits, etc. [John] Hay said he would soon come to London. Hay asked James to go to Egypt but he declined. #6251-n

Will dine with her at Argonauts Club on the 16th with much pleasure if it is not a public dinner with speeches, etc. He never goes within a mile of that. Let him have a little table to be obscure. With him it is an absolute rule. #6251-o

Hideous of him to delay thanking him for beautiful little book. Congratulates him for giving to his wife's interesting little notes a form that communicates them. Sorry no photograph of her. Discusses her attributes. She was a veritable artist; volume is extraordinarily fine. Doesn't know when he is coming to Rome. Come to Rye. Now in Paris at Zola's side. Finds Zola really a hero and thinks his original letter one of the most courageous things ever done. #6251-a

Doesn't know what horrors he may have inspired her to think of him by waiting so long to acknowledge the advent of Halbeck of Bannisdale . To give her some sign of his reading the beautiful book. It is already in Mrs. Green's hands. Favorable pages about his admiration for her great power to take hold of the reader. The book is done in a way to run the chance of being pronounced the finest of the lot. He is too special and too technical of a reader: he sees a novel, if he can read it at all, artistically conditioned. Gives his own comments on her characters. The fine, free, high way she walks over the big question, Laura's question, does her the greatest intellectual honor. #6251-a

How can he thank her for her noble profusion in her gift? Trusts his little house is not unworthy. There will be grand places of honor for each trophy. Shall give her more news when treasure is uncovered. Has beautiful inscribed copy of Halbeck of Bannisdale to thank her for. Hopes Halbeck of Bannisdale has begun to live his life: may it be long and glorious. Has been too out of the current to watch his first steps. Will see her brother tomorrow. #6251-a

Sending him three parcels: Preface to F.F.R's translated volumes, typed manuscripts of book, and sheets of French original. Also sends a letter to Miss F. R. whose address he mislaid. This is all he can do of his translations, as he is pressed with other work. #6251-af

Delighted to see him down there. James will be there until late November. Could put him up easily; there are two good trains daily. His little corner of old world is full of character and charm. #6251-af

She is extraordinarily kind in sending flowers and feathers. Rare birds or rare plants descend upon his sickly solitude and brighten and beautify it. In day or two he will express gratitude in person. #6251-a

He will have proof he returned with copy. #6251-a

His note was a waft of the warm south. Tells of his visitors. Reads of L'Affair Dreyfuss , an endlessly tormenting attaching affair, in what a strange and cruel will is grinding the French. It promises enough drama for the winter. What a harsh note, the tragic death [of Ludwig Norman-Neruda]. Didn't suppose of him anything so solid as Alps mastering. #6251-ag

Cannot leave home under lure of his invitation or any day during month, for reasons too many to inflict on her. Interruptions on his work are too profuse. Sits reading L'Affaire Dreyfuss . What a sinister affair, grinding the poor dear French. She does well to frequent them in happier days of their history. Has been reading [Francois Rene] Chateaubriand's Memoirs d'Outre-tombe , of which literary merits seem immense. Mrs. Field took him back to his faraway youth, and hers, when she was pretty and he was so aspiring. Read, if she hasn't, [Sarah Orne] Jewett's Country of the Pointed Firs for the pleasure of something really exquisite. Questionable if he will be in London at all this winter. Will depend on temperature of his house. Prays she is in good care and comfort. P.S. the two glasses are the glory of the countryside. #6251-a

Thanks for his preface to [Pierre] Loti. Received volume itself also. Hopes to get to town next Monday and get to see his father. #6251-af

Is perpetrating a disgusting crime, sending him some verses to read. They were sent him by a modest friend, and [Vallance] cut them up. Wants advice on getting them published. Has read one or two of his books: Roderick Hudson and Maisie and both impressed him. Feels it is great check to bother him, but knows he is uncommonly kind hearted. #6251-an

Her reminder is most kind, but he is not in town and cannot accept her hospitality. Going abroad for three months next week, and has his London quarters for six months. His simple existence holds him and even charms him, and his little old house is a perfect fit. Only sorry to have to give up London joys. Sorry not to dine with her. #6251-a

Unable to aid him in collecting works of his or anyone else's. Has attempted to write in a language already existing, and has found that a literary task abundantly difficult. Complicated by imported substances that would have got the better of him altogether. Has never had anything to say to which some word already forming part of human speech has not something to contribute of its own. #6251-a

Thanks for introducing him to a friend who cashed a draft for him. Saw Lady Kenmore who is better, and as beautiful as ever. Will take her to noted Elliott for whom she will sit for a pastel. #6251-ag

Bad conscience at not communicating before she left Rome. And that illness and complications that encumbered her last steps. Got home from town three days ago. He was caught up on cast down by the fates, and whirled by the irresistible Marion Crawford off to Sorrento, Capri, and Naples, all of which has not been in his programme . Florence, in its turn made a long arm. Returns to mountain of postal matter. Hopes all her stains of travel have been washed and smoothed away, so that she has nothing but romantic recollections and regrets. Hopes she has woven a big piece of her tapestry. He must sit tight for several weeks. Has not sent her The Awkward Age as not fair to make appeal to her attention while she was preoccupied. Wrote Heinemann to send her a copy. His four months in Italy did more for him than he shall know for a while. Will be a joy to hear of her other adventures. #6251-a

James found Anderson's letter when he arrived from Italy 12 days ago. Thought best to answer after box with its precious contents arrived to give him news of its condition. Unpacked it tenderly and it is in perfect condition, and is even more charming than it was in Rome. Rejoices to possess it. Writing London bankers for draft on Rome of $250.00 or £50 which he will send him. Modest sum for such an exquisite work. Placed it on chimney in dining room where he can see it as a boon companion. He will be a lifelong attachment. Brave little "Bevilocque " or braver still Maestro Anderson. They will both make many friends there. Lift up his heart. Don't sacrifice his health. #6251

Please find draft for £50. Let him know if missive reached him. Read in London papers of his "terramoto " and hopes of his grants toppled over. Sympathy with every inconvenience. Little Beviliocque sends his love. #6251

James defends his method of writing fiction and discusses at length the art of writing. There are as many cases as you like of presenting a thing by "going behind" as many forms of consciousness as you like: all Dickens, Balzac, Thackeray, Tolstoy, save when they use the autobiographical dodge, are huge illustrations of it. His own immortal works, for that matter, are recognizable instances of all the variations. He "goes behind" in The Princess Casassima, The Bostonians, The Tragic Muse , just as he does but singly in The American or Masie [What Massie Knew] . Appearance of doing it a little in The Awkward Age . She labors under three mistakes that distressed him and resents her attributing judgments to him too imbecile. She says he says there is only one general; he protests he has never had any difference with her. Does see what she means in Pictures d'Islande . He sees it as a beautiful crystal clear example of a single relation. Thought her process with Eleanor was already refined and defined as "dramatic." Does differ if she means picture can get any objective unity from any source but from the personality of the author. More about her Eleanor and her Lucy . If she cares her intolerable chatter and waits, she will see that he protests for his vagrant discourse with all faith, gratitude, appreciation, and affection. Asks her not to rejoin. #6251-a

Glad he got missive. Good news of his escape from Rome being in sight. Will make him welcome when right day comes. Has struck up tremendous intimacy with dear little Conte Alberto. He is the first object his eyes greet in the morning and the last at night. Sooner or later many will be struck by him. Remember him to the Elliots. Wrote them after vile earth-shock. Gathers it didn't shatter him or anything that is his. #6251

Found her letter after returning from 50 hours in Kent County, and thanks her for sign of remembrance and sympathy. Not in torrid town. Back from Italy three weeks ago after four months there, and hadn't been in town for 13 months. He is a tenant or a traitor; Lamb House is more or less Bowery. He is far from Wimbledon. So long abroad that pressing work had him by the throat on his return. Includes brief description and note, "Tink" to Gilbert, 1946 May 29. #6251-y

Doesn't decipher name of her friend's novel, but he shall need it. He shall go it blind and be only superlative and universal. Doesn't identify her Tourgenoff [Turgenev] play. Wishes her exuberant "royalties." Got back from a month in Rome. #6251-a

Has his letter with tag "Cook and Sons, London. " They have half a dozen offices there. Will check addresses. Tells him how to get to Rye. Write or wire and he will meet him. Feels him to be formidable to his red British cottage and plain cuisine, but he will be very welcome. #6251

Obliged if he will send check for Parté for James B. Pinker. Mr. Frederick is neighbor for but a brief moment of year, as far as Winchester is a neighbor of Rye. Bicycle helps to make it one, at least his does, and he sometimes sees them. This is a dear little corner of the land, and he finds it very propitious for work. #6251-a

Returns with thanks C. P.'s [Coventry Kersey Deighton Patmore] opuscule, which he has read with sympathy, but with a certain shudder at the indiscretion he imparts with his plea. He overcharges: pitches the key of appreciation to his sense too high. No one cares any more for the value of the shade, and the beauty of this region is conspicuously a case of that. However, he loved much, and little book is charming. #6251-m

Without prejudice to his magnificent statue! His note exactly what he hoped for. Asks him, with all his heart to come back for as long as he can possibly stay. Sorry to lose him when they walked sadly to station. Missed out of all proportion to three little days they spent together. Reminisces over bicycle trip, etc. Hopes to take studio in hand so it will be ready for him as an artistic habitation. Rye is not sculpturesque or an inspiration, but what's good for the man is good for the artist. Tell him as it shapes itself his weird American story. May it be good to him! #6251

His letter from Brookline touched him and made him feel possibility of his being with him awhile next summer. Talks of sadness of his August departure. He must do portraits and busts, and mighty good things will be with the style and mastery he will put into them. Hopes people will have sense to come to him. Feels millions of miles away from his strange American scene of action. His impressions penetrate to the center of his intelligence. His conception of courage and patience and confidence in him is a satisfaction. #6251

Obliged for his telegrams and glad he will take flat for one year. Thinks he will like 34 De Vere Gardens. Tells of its advantages and disadvantages and pleasures. Will let him know date for possession; thinks about December 10. Will have lease drawn up. #6251-a

Thanks her for two poultry books. Sorry he missed her husband's bringing them. His poultry is on a tiny scale (a few fresh eggs) and destined to be done by deputy (his little gardener). Larger book a thing of good counsel, and shall pray to be fortified for perusal of it, and then walk over to [Hiham] House with sympathy of her higher hilltop. #6251-a

Reasons why letter delayed. Sends tender good wishes for dawn of a good New Year. Gathers his start in New York is a "grimmishly" uphill battle. Thinks of him with sympathy and understanding. Must throw himself on his youth, his courage, his genius. They constitute a solid, golden capital. His portrait busts will be wanted as people become aware of them. Make them aware, then wait. Will go to London for 2-3 months. Let his apartment for pressing financial reasons. No hope of going to Italy in spring. Mrs. Gardner spent day or two with him and spoke kindly of Han's "brother the painter." #6251

He shall be very glad to see him if he comes to Rye. Let him know so he can arrange for him to break bread with him. Glad he has a berth on a really big ship. Must tell him all about his work. Receive his congratulations and divide them with Mrs. Anderson. #6251-m

Thanks her. Waited long enough to make her feel she hasn't pushed a spring that would act with violence. Gives him pleasure that she should care what he says about him. Feels joy and sadness in having finished one last utterance. Homesick for town, and shall not again hibernate amid pure elements. Pines for sound of buses, and color of jars, at night, at the chemists'. #6251-m

Grateful for all her information and instructions, and will place himself in relation with Lohmann people. Affected by her generous offer of tubs. Could place four to eight tubs practically; enormous load to send for any carriers. He should send for them, but her gardener can say a word to carrier. James will pay all costs. Her promise of names of shrubs will complete her benevolence. Asks her to come see array when formed. Rye has been in "carnaval!" #6251-a

Charming to hear from him despite his uphill winter, his alien and exiled state after Rome, the artists' own. Looking forward to having him there in a few months. Has had a worried winter, wholly spent in the house. Pats him tenderly on the back as his fate hangs fire. It's when nothing happens that one is most at ease. Goes to London for fortnight, then home for long go of tranquility. That's the only thing that makes life tolerable. Anniversary of Italian journey last year, which brings deep nostalgia and yearning to be back there. Hans must be there. Autograph note by Henry James on verso of envelope. #6251

About his tender, sympathetic letter. Particularly dismal year for James. Talks of going to London, then home, not to Italy, etc. Thinks of him with hope in the big, kind, ugly country. Think of James as peaceful and productive for sitting close to home. Glad Mrs. Jack is kind to him; be kind when he can to her.

Ought to have thanked her for beautiful tubs, which are a treasure and a resource of the first magnitude. Even empty they import distinction to his rather bare little court. When garnished and painted, he shall feel as Louis XIV must have felt in L'Orangerie at Versailles. #6251-a

Thanks her for The Human Interest which he has now absorbed in its totality; he is extremely struck by its expertness, her acuteness of mind and skill of hand. In his battered stage of life, he does not read any fiction; the eternal critic within him insists on his rights. But he has no right to thrust him on her. He will talk his impressions at the first chance. Hasn't absorbed her young Irish friend, yet. #6251-o

Not at present in London. James away for two years, and has taken a little old house as a refuge and asylum from whirlpool of town. Come to him for a few days; he has an excellent studio to offer her. Tells her of what the area has to offer: a paradise for the cyclist. #6251-ac

Delighted she thinks of coming. Tells her how to get there. Thanks her for news of the untraceable Benedicts. #6251-ac

Glad to see him on the 28th. Come to luncheon. Rejoices with him over development of his insurance genius. #6251-m

Takes it kindly that he has sent his interesting book of verses and letter: all those he has read hold their own. Little rustic lays are admirable, natural and true. May his genuine note find handsome recognition. Hopes to see him. #6251-o

Obliged for letter with its inquiry, which does him much honor as to possibility of reading before one of her Women's Clubs this winter. There is no prospect of his spending any time in America at a near date. Next time he returns, hopes to meet her suggestion. #6251-r

Delayed thanking her for letter and token of remembrance (candlesticks). Discusses her stay at "The Mermaid. " Wants to return pin found there but has no address. Miss Woolson would have found peace in his little corner of England. May Paris be easy for her, and New York not impossible. #6251-ac

Sorry for their convalescence, but delighted they are better. Kind to write and send photos. Back from London and a day with the Benedicts. They were unchanged from six years ago. Took them to Wallace collection. Sending Miss Barnes hereditary jewel to Ludlow. P.S. Exquisite candlesticks the pride of his life and the light of his eyes. #6251-ac

Delayed thanking her for letter as unwell. Only able to sit to Bay Emmet for her portraits. Thinks they will be admirable as she has solid talent. She will take one to U.S. for New York exhibit. Grateful for Grace's pleasure in his goblin tale. Tells of goings-on in Rye. Hopes her painting makes strides. Lamb House feels nowhere. #6251-ac

Hideous news from [Mouza?] which filled him with sickness. Stirred with pity and horror that they must be in. Makes one aware how their "lover," the blessed old Italy, is unique. All had sympathy for the honest man, Humberto, with his straight ways, and his handsome public purposes and the hideous brutish villainy. What grief for his family and for Venice. Record heat in London. The Chinese nightmare has darkened all things. #6251-ag

Distressed by his letter. Worried when he hadn't heard. Sent emissary to him: his cousin, a painter, to see what happened. Feels he had a devil of a time; didn't say what was the matter or what the operation was for. Glad he is on his feet again. Stick to Newport and his family, until he can go it alone, and then come to James and he will give him a further lift. Family duties and anxieties have been heavy on James. His little house is constantly occupied. If he gets over will be delighted to see him. Get well and keep up his heart. #6251

Desires to support the application for assistance made on behalf of Mrs. Stephen Crane to the Royal Library Fund and testify to Mrs. Crane's extreme need of such aid. #6251-at

How can he thank him for letter? Read into his hurried words everything. Understands his practical impossibilities. Forgive gruesome image of his description of feelings. The grey years gather; he feels his loss and gain if he had been free. Saw Paris of these months as a positive hell of worry and oppression for him. Rejoices he had three weeks in May. Asks him to put his record and impressions in order so he may have cognition of them. His letter exhales complexity and obscurity of trouble and he may hold out assurance of help. Thinks the part from which he sets out is that of essential loneliness of his life: it is the deepest thing about him. #6251-m

Infinitely touched by kindness and sympathy of her letter and interested in her news. He has been out of the current for a long time, and feels as if his oldest friend would have been excusable to exclude him from all earthly affairs. It's humane of her to give him another chance. Kind of her to ask after his brother who has been little with him this summer as he has been at Nanheim cures, etc. He is better and has been able to write most of his first course of Gifford lectures. The second course he has had to renounce. His sister-in-law was with him much of the latter half of the summer. She abandoned the idea of returning to the United States for two months to see her other children. His summer has been a deluge of family, and he has not stirred from home. How rich her existence, how numerous her contacts, how perfect her machinery. He should have sent her his lately published tales, except he thought she was given over to last work on Eleanor . Shall have book sent now. It represents all tales he has finished and issued. He niggles away at dictation and finds his blessed little place promoted continuity. He has done another book of short stories, and a shortish novel to appear in the spring, and immersed in a third which is to "serialized" in Harper's fills all his consciousness. Congratulates her on the consummation of Eleanor : infinitely awaits the volume. Delightful for her to have the pretext for another month in Rome! Impossible for him to join his brother there as he proposes. He will go to town January 1 until May, and will see her and let her tell him all about the play. Rejoices for her in an associate as charming and literary, etc. as Julian S. #6251-a

The Soft Side was doubly due to them, for they gave him in three vivid words the subject of The Tree of Knowledge , about Gordon G. and his father and mother. He is starved of Italy, but doesn't like Rome as it is today: an eternal dodging of impossible people, and a place of terror before May 1. Has met Lady Radnor. Talks much about Barbaro. Has only one lovely emotion left: a passion for the Empress Dowager, although her dynasty does sound like a Chinese sneeze! He is convinced he should have been a Mandarin. #6251-ag

Rejoices Mrs. Robinson is able to come, and expects both Thursday. Foresees they will be full of assistance. #6251-a

Rejoices in news he will come straight down and stay many days before his feverish impatience to get to Rome, work, and glory. Congratulates him on that liberation. His recent purgatory will have been worthwhile. Tells him where to go in London, how to visit his cousin, and how to get to Rye. Rejoices he is found and strong. #6251

Obliged for letter and inspiring sketch. All he suggests deserves much thinking. He has distilled the poison, and part of it will work. Difficulty is he must wait. Can't think of it until next year, when he shall know what money he can muster for gardening. His idea for terrace, etc. appeals strongly. Other idea for garden terrifies him: it may crowd him and make his little enclosure look smaller than it already it. Source of terror is question. #6251-a

Has had two impulses: to write to her soon as he heard of her father's death; and to let a little time pass. He had just begun Eleanor and was absorbing it. Writes about parental extinctions. When he finished book he had words to utter to heal wounds rather than to be harsh to them. Her father had the serenity of his accomplished age, after many mutations, and assuredly after seeing himself magnificently fulfilled by her. She can think of the pleasure and pride she must have filled his life with. Hopes he read Eleanor . He never met him, but was impressed with his published personal recollections, and what a date was his death in the Arnold family cycle! Thanks for her letter on The Soft Side , a little bundle of sordid potboilers which he is forced to write, because there is no demand for anything else so he has done another volume of similar snippets, even though he is old enough to know better. He reads as much fiction as he can read. Took liberty in inordinate degree with Eleanor . Many compliments on book, and feels it the highest tribute he can pay. He can't criticize though he could re-write! The thing is infinitely delightful and distinguished, and that's enough. Won't pretend book hasn't a weakness, a rather grave one, or she will doubt his intelligence. Goes into detail: Lucy vs. Eleanor , etc. He recognizes that not a solitary reader or critic will have made his criticism, and when a book is beautiful, nothing does matter. #6251-a

Just heard he has arrived. James is alone, and wants Hans to stay as long as possible. Gives train schedule. His room awaits for him. #6251

Should have thanked her for information regarding Miss Robinson, but away. Glad she has her to watch over her, and that she has sought rest and protection from ferocious devotions. He is writing Miss Robinson preaching unqualified surrender. I am sure she will then come back with all the fruits of victory. #6251-d

Kind to write again regarding their admirable, difficult friend. Relieved she is being nursed, tended, and kept quiet, but depressed regarding her reluctance to join her in the South. London from any point of view is not the place for her. Wishes some high medical voice would say three to four months abroad her absolute duty. #6251-d

Going to Lamb House for Christmas and his next activities. Next year on excellent footing for going abroad to his beloved Italy. Talks of their site and Roman view and his own activities. Things are gloomy and the roar is anything but over. #9511-q

Thinks of him on the banks of the Tiber, with joy and sympathy. How jolly to be restored to Rome and the old life, the old love, the pure independent passions of the mind and the imagination. Came to town for three months. Hopes the summer will bring him to England with a good bit of a fairy tale to tell him. #6251

He has already written his servants in the country to look up volume, and immediately send it to her. Can he come in and see her some day next week to express his contrition and explain his infirmity? #6251-o

Most kind her letter, etc. and it needs all his courage not to be responsive, but it is impossible for him to go abroad this spring. He is not free, as he is bound to an unfinished and belated book on his hands. Also his brother and his wife arrive from Italy at Easter to come down with him for a month. Talked with Mrs. Peter Harrison who knows her villa well, and she made his mouth water. Has liveliest appreciation of her remarks on The Sacred Fountain . Says the book isn't worth discussing. It was a remarkably accidental one, and the merest joux d'esprit . Started as a short story and never stopped. Tried to make it a consistent joke, but it was taken seriously. It's doubtless disgraceful, but it's the last he shall ever make. Forgive his weariness over his deadly backward book, which isn't a joke, unless he doesn't know the difference. #6251-a

Any day after the 25th will do. She will come back saturated with romance, and she will find James a sympathetic [devourer?] and he doesn't have any one of ces dames ! #6251-o

The man about town will with pleasure emerge from his club at 5 next Wednesday and join the woman about town at hers. The former is infinitely obliged to the latter. #6251-o

Just got back and found the offering of her latest creation from her hand. Will give his attention to things she specifies. Touched by her remembering their brief talk, which brings back one of his London hours of crowded life with piercing intensity; he is faced with a great lonely horizon. Human interest is lacking, and he eagerly turns to her confidently. #6251-o

Her note reached him, but he has been ill in bed with a bad throat, so now he sits face to face with pile of responsibilities. Gives the coming months in town a wide berth and is in retreat. But her poor little Corker, what is one to say? #6251-o

What an arch brute he must think of James for failing to thank him for photographs. Spent four months in London. Brother, wife, and children are visiting and taking all his time. They found Hans delightful in Rome. A lot about his "Lincoln " and traveling all over Italy. Discusses various parts of "Lincoln " and his approval. A seated Lincoln shocks him for he always stood tall. Suggests improvements. He is more placid than one's own image and memory. Benevolent, deeply troubled, altogether tragic. Forgive criticism. #6251

Rejoices in her news that poor E.L.G. is here. Wrote to them. When they try to get into real residence, the tug of war will come. Tugs to extract pleasure that the brave impression of England these lovely days must be giving him. #6251-e

Welcomes news she has returned. Ill since news arrived. Now ready to meet her. No travel this year. "The Mermaid "flourishes and welcomes her and her niece. #6251-ac

Glad she is arranging to come. Sorry he has planned other company. There will be a congested scene of action, but he will nip around to "The Mermaid " at the slightest respite. #6251-ac

Received missives and will do justice to her hospitality, scruples, and fears. But it would be better to dine with James briefly and simply at 7 sharp. Will be able to make it to the opera more efficiently. #6251-ac

Thanks her for offer of a truly operatic privilege, but hindered and hampered his impulse. She is generous and gallant beyond compare, but he presently has three relations in the house and must remain home. Fondly recollects past operatic experience. #6251-ac

Asks that Grace and Miss Brown dine with him on Saturday before the opera. La Tosca begins at 8, so call dinner at 7. Will meet at the Grosvenor Club. #6251-ac

More shocked and grieved than he can say with his whole winter's work and high hopes and good faith. Worried since he hadn't heard since he received photographs. Asks him to come to England until he is consoled and cheered. Must leave Italy. Can give him a studio. In Rome the sculptor works for a great vulgar, stupid community that revels in vulgarity and only quakes at the blessed nude. #6251

How can he express an answer to her kind note as he is in bondage to his confirmed habit of never dining out in the country, so he cannot accept her invitation. He will come over some afternoon and explain everything. #6251-a

His letter was a joy. Wants him to come soon. Shall try to stretch out his promised work. Will talk of blessed good news he brings from Rome. Come the first moment he can. #6251

Sooner he sees him the better and gives train schedule. Bear up through his ill-seen London, in his dreary condition. #6251

Thanks for his signal of safety after woeful journey. Likes to think of him fixed for the Roman winter and wishes him high tide of inspirational and execution, to float him over every worry and land him in peace and renown. Misses him out of all proportion to the too few hours he was there. Tell him if more occurs to him regarding Norway business. Can't bear not to know his nightmares. #6251

Touched by his having found time to express anything in respect to his ineffectual participation. Please remember he continues to think of him with considerable power of evocation. #6251-a

Embarrassed to advise her. He did give Ortmann a thing for his A.A. Magazine (not Review) because he had published 2 longish things of his in Cosmopolitan and paid decently well. Ortman has been in dire straits since Cosmopolitan collapsed; doesn't see why she must provide Ortman with the table of contents for nothing. James will send his copy of new magazine when he gets it for her to judge. Will come up within a month. Ask James to tea at her little white club. #6251-o

His news fills him with horror and pity. His heart bleeds at vision of him alone in wicked and indifferent Rome with this haunting and unbearable sorrow. Aches to know he can't be there to hold him, etc. What a dismal winter, with the staggering blow at the climax. Hopes he may come to England for consolation. Embraces him with a passion of pity. #6251

Often thought of her for month when he was ill and unable to write feeling helpless and hopeless. At last he is better and crawling out of his deep hole. Only saved his life by scrambling back there. This is his first non-wired communication with the world. He has the terror of convalescence awaiting him. Sends her The Story in Italy . Will she return? Always suspected Cosmopolitan Seraglio. #6251-o

Too ill to write sooner in London, but now convalescent at home. Didn't want to cruelly worry him. Now James' weak arms can fold Anderson close. Has gone through death to death in his long life, to know how all that we are and have, all that is best within us, our genius, our imagination, our passion become opens gates to suffering, to being flooded. James tells Anderson, "Let yourself go and live now as a lacerated mutilated lover, with your grief, your loss, your sore unforgettable consciousness." Possess them and let them possess you and life will still hold you in her arms. Beautiful and unspeakable Anderson's account of his relation to Andreas : sacred beyond tears. James wishes he had known Andreas, an admirable, loveable boy. Andreas is all Anderson's now: With Anderson's patience, genius and courage, things will come back to him. #6251

Can't leave Anderson's last letter without saying how touched he is to the heart, with his tenderest, healing benediction. Anderson mustn't waste another thought on any trouble of James's. James is blessedly better, and only wanting to go back to work. #6251

Newspapers lie a great deal, but prompted her to write. Thinks James is working through nightmare. His book delayed, but will be out soon, and will send her a copy. Shall seek her out at earliest occasion after pandemonium of the present has subsided. Thanks her for her circular account of "Monna Vanna " which he shall not see enacted. Shall read with disappointment. James loves Maeterlinck: a beautiful mind. Strikes him as treated with strange heaviness, as if to make up for rare temerity of his old beautiful things. But he blasphemes. Wished he could go to a performance with her. #6251-o

Blow to learn Anderson is passing by so near James and not stopping. Waiting for Anderson's September visit. Natural that Anderson should be making for Paris. With Anderson's mother and brother he can work in as few complications as possible. James wishes he might have seen them, too. Wishes he could say he could get to Italy this winter. Yearns to go for a long stay and pick Anderson up and take him to places he wants to see. Would like to hear about Anderson's time in America. Hopes he has been able to put something solid under his feet and something bright before his eyes. He must march to glory with lengthening strides. May his mother find comfort in being with him and helped by him. #6251

Thanks for her generous letter. Thinks he sees faults of his too voluminous fiction. When a thing is done, he sees nothing but the faults: three or four major ones. None are the objection she raises. Agrees subject is a poor one. The thing is essentially a drama, like everything he does. Can't come to her as not possible to leave home. In town January to May. #6251-a

Fat fearful book went to her with blushing compunction, but he does not come to town until after Christmas. Sorry he failed to send her The Wings of the Dove , but he lost his head. Hopes her brave life is winning most of its battles. Glad she is seeing Constance Fletcher. Shall have her autograph at earliest opportunity. #6251-o

Believes his letter moves him, and is the most beautiful letter he ever received from any man. Accompanied as it is by an exquisite intelligence as well as by the penetrating cordiality of affection, inspiring and inflaming the sympathy with which he reads him. James writes out of deep and dire complexity of that sentient machine on which he put his unerring finder: to be encased in which is to be forever mortally isolated. Gives him a chance to say "think of him so, always, and he will think of him tenderly." He adds to his wish and to his need to lead the life of his genius, and he shall, somehow, while there's a rag left of him, thanks to him. How deeply interesting he is on his change of place, expressing a frankness and fullness which he has never used, which James has always desired. Fullerton's cause is not the losing one: he is kept for great things. He'll bring Spain back into the family. He'll repay the debt to Columbus. But it takes him horribly away. Thinks of him with a free mind in Madrid, and tries to think of some day coming to see him there, which will be his only chance to see him. Goes to see George Meredith because he promised the Atlantic to write a paper on him. His Cornhill thing will reach him, and delights to expect it. Sends him his Flaubert and Balzac introductions, but what the Devil will he do with them? Pack them on the bottom of books he has stored in Paris. They will have ultimate bibliographical value. #6251-m

Has been silent since last letter. Didn't want to write so he would have to answer so soon. He would think of him more if he did not write. Anderson wrote of being peacefully settled in work and having his mother conveniently established with him. Had been comforted to know she would break his solitude. Haunted all winter by vision of his lovely labors and lonely misery. Hopes mother is happy. James is there where he left him and will go to London for 3-4 months in January. Looks forward to their future time together, but has little hope of being out of England. Always yearning for Italy. Blesses his work: he is a heroic young master of the grand style. Sounds horribly beautiful and big and difficult, but he will know that in the interest and the honors. Sending his ponderous book since he so gallantly asked for it, but not necessary to plough through it. #6251

Stenning of Lloyd's Bank communicated to him her invitation to look at her son's St. George's Bowl, and he was delighted to rest his eyes on this admirable and venerable object. Anything associated with this dear old house has an interest for him, so deeply has he in these five years attached himself there. He is personally indebted to her civilized ancestor who conceived and put together for his benefit so long ago the charming, graceful sturdy little house that suits his fancy and his necessity, in which he hopes to end his days. #6251-m

Rejoices in her request to dine, and he shall be delighted to do so. Just come to London and feel the overwhelming assault of London on even a poor helpless country cousin. #6251-a

Gratefully acknowledges his letter which heaps the "coals of fire" of the scriptural image. His father's idea of coming out to visit had revived with some force, and Henry echoes it favorably. Seems William is about to vanish into the "Unknown, " though not, obviously, into the unknowing. Rye shrinks up in largeness of your prospects though still hoping and holding hard. Hopes all his plans for the future holiday works out, but hopes it won't be all Anglo-American. Send box to Rye whenever; it will be a cherished gage for his arrival. Poor little Francis-Aleck. Wish we could do something for him, but he will live out of his troubles. #6251-ax

Sad but lunching tomorrow with William Darwin. Won't he propose himself there and enable him to see him? Leaves town tomorrow for one week. With note by Gary Byrd determining date of correspondence. #6251-a

Thanks for note; will be glad to meet her in Sackville. Pardon him if he thriftily reserves his [ammunition?] until then. #6251-o

Tiresome complication has arisen in form of engagement with dentist; it will make his attendance at Sackville Street a little later than he hoped. #6251-o

Talks about why he hasn't written and why he can't come to Italy. Ease of mind because Anderson's mother is there. Write to give a notion of what Anderson has done, but don't say anything sadder than Anderson can help. Asks for photo and as a bribe will send him one of James as soon as he gets back to Rye. #6251

Melancholy satisfaction to get his good letter because it told of his splendid activity, production and courage, but melancholy because of his confinement all summer to torrid Rome. May his path be changed by seeing his work grow and exalt and triumph. Anderson's devotion makes James long to see what Anderson is doing and has done. Wishes Anderson didn't follow so little portable and so much payable a trade. James holds Anderson to his promise to send photos of his creatures and their creator with the portrait of his mother. James sending slightly dreary portrait of himself. Hopes Anderson's words about coming to see James will turn out to be true. #6251

Delayed to answer her note and return adventurous book [The Better Sort] because he was expecting a batch of photographs, the first for many years, and wanted to give her one. They are not very good, but he has always been the despair, the dishonor of the camera. James signs the photograph and adds name of the book. Don't read all the contents. Rejoices to do these things to make up for words that couldn't be exchanged on that congested Sunday. #6251-a

Driven to system of making all his correspondents commit themselves to bearing it from him or not bearing it. They can always pay him back in kind. He is testing her to see how he can go, or how far they can go. Could she come down July 11? He has been victim of manifold complications. It is the American season, and he is submerged by the compatriots, every week without exception. This has distracted his work and he has lost a servant. Will meet her at station, alone. #6251-o

Can she come August 8? In London yesterday, giving Sidney Calvin away at the altar. #6251-o

Tells her of difficult train trip down. Will meet her. Impatient for her new subject, her impressions, and all her novelties. #6251-o

Obliged for her ferocious letter; she has a "rum" collection of places for resort. Lamb House, on her departure, relapsed into ascetic gloom. Her companion of genius to passenger on "liner" to his cabin and his "hold" luggage is very brilliant and he does agree with this difference. Genius gets at its own luggage in the hold perfectly but it doesn't get at captain's or first mate's in their mysterious retreat. Now, William of Stratford [Shakespeare] had no luggage in any part of ship, corresponding to much of wardrobe sported in plays. #6251-o

Returning enclosed in admiration. Accompanied him home into his shy heritage. "What a fat-faced, twaddling, harmless Henriette; suggesting an unfrocked 'nun' though literally unfrocked I should scarce like to see her." In Violet Hunt's hand on typed transcript: "Rosamond's fragment 'The Pretty Lady' that I sent him." #6251-o

Greatly touched by her letter. A friendly voice from afar assuming the lonely worker is a value, a virtue, and a charm. Rejoices he has lighted or smoothed her path. Indebted to her goodwill, intelligence, and sympathy very much as she may have felt indebted to his work. Gives him great pleasure to feel he strikes a note the other side of the globe. #6251-a

Sends him a rocket so he will be guided to England as promised in September. Doesn't want to hurry him, but after many weeks of silence his spirit hangs tenderly about Anderson. Anderson's reward for a heroic summer should be a liberal taste of northern freshness. All will be worth three times as much for returning there if they breathe their air for a few weeks. All he wants is some news. Shall be jubilant if it's good. #6251

Anderson's letter gives James great joy that James knows Anderson to be out of the ovens of the Seven Hills. Glad to have confirmation of his reaching England. James asks Anderson to give him notice of when to expect Anderson so James can adapt his activities. Speaks of romantic Italy and how James has been cheated of it. His losses will be made up by Anderson's talk. #6251

Delighted to take firm hold of him October 12. Write Paris address. Thanks for photo of bearded bandit, charming for all its savagery. #6251

Generous note; rather fat French book goes to her. James kept it so long to show a young American friend for its amateurish binding. May it now beguile her leisure. She brought luck by her visit: they have had days of perfect beauty. Kind of her to take measures for his enjoyment. #6251-a

Sorry she is so battered, and he can't relieve or assist her, save by referring the importunate and imaginative lady to him. Take it easy, take her easy, take everything easy. He is homesick in his own home! #6251-a

Kind invitation, but impossible for him to leave home this week. Long time since they met. They must meet before he takes his annual flight from the execrable summer. Hopes it has not undermined his sources of life or of faith. James has barely registered it. #6251-m

Anderson's letter puts heart into James to make up a little for quantity James loses after the publication of his work. Anderson makes James feel James has done something, and still might again: this is truly a boon. Sympathy for wife's illness; will visit when comes to town after the New Year. #6251-y

Thanks her for beautiful plan that makes him feel more nostalgic than ever, and more frustrated and remote. Her plan is a thing of such art and value as to make him want to frame it and hang it up. #6251-a

Thanks for letter full of rumors and color of the great world, which make his lowly corner feel very grey and small. Happy to come down November 28th, and have her tell him about Paris, which he hasn't seen for 4 1/2 years. If she reads The Ambassadors , remember it is an old book, finished two years before The Wings of the Dove was published, and he feels a kind of staleness to it. #6251-a

Her novellas are very acceptable, but if she presses a button the little return note comes too. She bequeathed him a nice heritage. Can't meet until he comes to town in January. Has had a populated and agitated summer with little concentration, but period of peace has set in. Sorry to hear of her temperature-taking episode. #6251-o

Pedestal of the "Young Count " has not come. Wanted Anderson to know how tenderly James' thoughts have been about Anderson still more after he had gone. Nothing could please James more than Anderson saying he is robust after his heroic labor. Out of such turmoil are the creations of genius born. Talks about their next meeting. #6251

Beautiful "Bevilaquatic" support has arrived, and given him an immense lift, not only to see the young Alberto greatly rising in the world, but also to the old Henry its now proud proprietor and to the young Henry its inspired inventor. It is an exquisite object and exactly what was wanted. Thanks him one thousand times for it has given him great pleasure and great adornment. #6251

If James doesn't seem to fall into line over Gosse's malicious blue eyes and the grossness of his moustache, he should say in a giggle: "How do they do these things in such a way," with such a completeness and consistency of manner. However it is doubtless to do them when one is inspired as M. [D'Asray] cordially is, and with every reason to be. All a mystery and everything but his predestined apotheosis with the whole thing. What a brilliant act of English criticism. And the funny little periodical is all very interesting. #6251-a

He felt a good deal of despair after The Ambassadors, and said to himself: "What can be expected of a novel with a hero of 55, and properly no heroine at all?" Slowly felt better, and book is intrinsically best he has written, in spite of a fearful though patched over fault or weakness in it, which no one has noticed, and which nothing will induce him ever to reveal. It is meritorious for its conformation and composition. Was written 4 years ago, and finds himself away and "off" from it. What gives him particular pleasure is her feeling that one is in a fresh or larger period, which he really hopes and believes. May prove to be the case. #6251-a

Guesses he hasn't seen her because he assumes she is only on a pilgrimage to her new domicile. Sympathy in whole heroic complications. He would rather perish than ever move again. He grieves of her being handicapped with her eyes. Wishes her as merry a Christmas as she desires. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Pretty volume has come, and thanks him as for a graceful Christmas offering. Reserving it for the drop in the press, of many things that years end brings with it. Glad of news on Harlands. Hopes general New York cancer won't seriously overstrain him, and watches for approach of his return and for promise of his impressions. P.S. Appreciates Mrs. Lowe's interest, and in his quality of all New Yorkers interested in Knickerbocher legend. Feels it is his best mental quality, and rejoices to see it finely recognized. #6251-a

Delighted with her vivid letter about the poor dear Ambassadors . He has been laid up with gout. Long discussion of what book can offer, etc. and her reaction to it. When he gets foot to the earth, he shall hobble to town and shall come straight to see her. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Will come to town February 1 and will immediately make her an overture for one of the pleasant little talks on Sackville Street. Discusses at length her remarks regarding The Ambassadors . #6251-o

Came late to town and was "took" with gout and had to go home to bed, and he is only now recovering a little. Will rejoice visiting her when she makes a sign. #6251-o

On Monday at 5 on Sackville Street with pleasure. She makes him too glad he is not an aunt. How many different things she manages to be! #6251-o

How kind to invite him to the dear young creature's marriage. Will join the pilgrimage on the 19th with pleasure. How many horses she must be driving at once: her life is a chronic hippodrome. Looks ruefully at his one scraggly pony on its treadmill. #6251-a

Acknowledges her charming letter and generous feelings. His own yearning and privations balance with hers. If she languishes for Europe on her Pacific slope, he languishes for her climate, color, and freshness in this rather stale extremity of civilization and ponderosity of air. #6251-a

Apology for not writing. Difficult to write to Italy because it always makes him melancholy, so he dodges it. Winter of her sister's death, and its circumstances. Takes his passage for August 24 to the States. Expects to spend 6-8 months there, not in New York or Boston, but if possible in California. 28 years ago he spent a year there, and 32 years ago he spent two years there. Always thinks of it as his original departure for Europe. In 1869 Europe was intensely romantic to him, but that has all changed, and his own country has become so from strangeness. England has lost its old color. Will America have taken a new color? Doubtless not, but goes for urgent practical reason. Has spent 7 weeks in London and stays another month. Still thinks yearningly of Florence. #6251-ag

Tomorrow at Sackville St. to tea. P.S. Finds it positively voluptuous not to be leaving by the Butcher's station or the Baker's or any other. #6251-o

What shall he say about his atrocious accident of afternoon? But that he is overwhelmed with shame, and that he grovels before her in self-disgust. He forgot tea was today until too late. Impose any penance, and lies in dust at her mercy. Sends tears at her wasted hours and her perplexed and unrelieved wait. #6251-o

Heard from Bill's mother of his dread illness having happily progressed, but medical school being postponed. Perhaps, by some miracle, he could come out and spend eight or ten weeks peacefully and restfully with James in these quiet and secure conditions? It would be a joy to have him come. Will pay for his trip, but will not send ticket until he knows definitively since he is saving every penny for his passage to New York on August 24th. Will understand if he doesn't come. Both Bills' father and Bill seemed to have a blighted winter, but it is well behind them. He had his tenderest, if too "Platonic," sympathy, but was too far away to send sweet jelly. He will have tons of it if he comes. P.S. Wants some news of his obscured Airedale. #6251-aw

Said good-bye to Arthur yesterday: a delightful, engaging, charming youth, full of simplicity and sincerity, as well as the love of his work. Pathetic to see him thrown alone on that fierce battlefield or tropical artistic wilderness of Paris. Rejoices in his sending him to visit James. Arthur's resemblance brought Anderson back to his side. Anderson encased in work, but he mustn't pay too much for it. Asks him if there is any chance of his coming to England this summer. James goes to America for autumn, winter and spring. Arthur tells him Anderson has a proposal to go there and teach, and hopes he is thinking of it as he shall be able to see him there and help him. James going there partly for indispensable money. Talks about Anderson's vertigo: probably from long foodless hours of work. Used to be so with him. Has he any small photos of himself and his new figures? Yearns to see them and him before he goes. Hopes for a cessation of his physical ills. #6251

Thanks him for touching little letter which brings tears to his eyes. S. S. Howells and his daughter have been with him since he left. Phil should never doubt of James' inability to take his hand from Phil's shoulder (where he laid it originally when he was almost too young to keep himself) or doubt either of an indisposition to that act quite equal to the inability. Phil always will remind him of old, beautiful days and hours of a great affection or a cherished image. These things come closer again when James is with him, and he feels the breath of them, bountifully, when he was there. Very affectionately yours. #6251-bb

Waited to thank him for letter, but it was saddening with its tale of overwork and overstrain because there have been elements of uncertainty and tension and confusion in his own situation. His feet now firm enough to ask if it's in his power to get to him for the winter. He would be delighted. James leaves for the United States the last week of August. Always full of tender and affectionate welcome in his own quiet way. Anderson's taking a long, costly journey sticks in his crop. He could cherish him for 3-4 weeks. The change would make for his comfort and well being. Thinks of him with anxiety and commiseration in the fiery furnace of Rome. #6251

Thanks for her word of sympathy and of warning. Her friend's slim volume came, but he cannot deal with it. Dreads the new book that is an appeal to and surrender of one's time from amateurish hands, and he is hardened to acknowledge many things by silence. Joy in swift slipping of time for his return to England, which one's advancing maturity makes generally more and more familiar. #6251-a

Talks about his charming touching letter. Every word as soothing as a caress. Money in his pocket if he knows Anderson is in a good high place at peace with his human companion, including brother Arthur. Groans over it being so long before he hears of his Italian summer. Will leave August 1 and not return until late spring. May his time be full without a blink of giddiness. Talks about photographs which terrify him with their evidence of madness. Talks at length about works shown in the photographs. Forgive him his wild and wandering talk. Pats him on his back tenderly. #6251

Will have struck her that he was behaving with brutish want of grace. Can only throw it, with the dead weight of the rest of him, straight into scale, not of her justice, but of her mercy. Will go off to America in a few days. Unfinished work rode him like a nightmare. Book is done. Gives more excuses for not writing. Doubts if he shall hear from her again, but gives her his good wishes. Why doesn't she come to United States? She could have great success there, and enlarge her public and popularity. #6251-o

Only a word to announce the arrival of luminous pictures, which dazzle his eyes. Sails the 24th, but to the Reform Club, Pall Mall tomorrow. #6251-o

They have received on his account from their Boston House, 33 pounds 15/7 shillings which they placed to his credit in their books. #6251-aq

Much touched by her generous letter letting him down so gently and humanely. Thanks for her handsome response to his imperfect plea. Talks of her sad situation at Alderburgh: tragic, insoluble, with her stricken mother, etc. These are terrible mortal hours, but sit tight and time will come when problems become shortened and softened. Sails for United States Wednesday, and they will foregather in the spring. #6251-o

What a generous, charming and interesting letter which came at the eleventh hour, which is infinitely treacherous. It is easy to neglect or forget the old world one has quitted, or forget it for a time, and only come back to it with such a rush. Has not made plans for the six to eight months that he had in mind. Has been there just a week in a vast yet exquisite Arcadia. The New England September is glorious and golden. Owes her recognition of her liberal response to his ineffectual expression re her brother. Asks her to feel him holding on to her tight with one hand, oh, so tight. #6251-a

Only in America a few days, and his daily postbag is appallingly heavy. Apology for thanking her in brief terms for her letter. James likes to know she is an intelligent and perceptive reader of his poor distillations. In the case of W.W.G. book from very bare commentary material made the thing a feat of ingenuity and almost literary heroism. There was little material on hand for a real record. Later in winter hopes for a pilgrimage to California, and shall perhaps have the pleasure of seeing her. #6251-a

Three days ago saw his sister in Boston. Thanks Anderson for the tender letter which he repeatedly re-read. Miserably mute because of all delays, shortcomings and embarrassments in America. Scapegoat of his conscience from day to day and hour to hour. Talks of Mrs. Andreas and her answers to questions about Anderson in Boston. What a shock to learn of Anderson's heart trouble and troubled pilgrimage to Turin specialist. Hopes Mrs. Andreas' report isn't too rose-coloured. Work gently and sanely. Put on brake and twiddle his thumbs. Wishes he could lay his hands, soothing, perhaps healing, on Anderson in the quality of their pressure. Mrs. Andreas showed him a photo album of Anderson's recent life and work. Pictures quickened his conception of his work's greatness and beauty. If he thought he was killing himself, James would come and smash a few dozen statues, smash them for brazen idols feeding on his flesh to clear the air. Photos bring tears to his eyes. Wanted to borrow the volume. Talks of the beauty of New England, and says he wants to see the rest of the country with some literary purpose until late in the spring, if he doesn't break down from weariness and nostalgia. New York affects him fearfully, and full of all sorts of homesickness, but interested, too; everyone is extraordinarily kind. Holds him in love. Keep up his heart and swing his hammer wide, and they will know good days together again. #6251

His brother, Professor James, indicated to him their inquiry as to his whereabouts. Doesn't wonder they are bewildered at his failure to stay in New York. Hopes to settle himself there by the first of the month. Delayed by having a dreadful condition in his hands which has lasted a month, blighted his days and nights and breaking into his work. Worst is over, and he is promised liberation and will go to 21 East 11th Street New York until February 10. #6251-a

Her inquiry as to 2-3 of his letters among Miss Cobb's relics finds him spending a few months in America. She is welcome to print small documents in question if she thinks them worth it. Has no recollection of their contents or having written about Mrs. Kemble. Leaves matter to her discretion to use for her memorial or to recall a little of Mrs. [Frances Anne] Kemble's great presence. She has a free hand. #6251-y

In reply to his invitation to sit for photograph mentioned in letter to James from R. W. Gilder, he wishes to say he is far from New York and on his way south and to California, and shall not be in New York for weeks. Try him toward the end of April. #6251-g

Obliged to his note confirming James's doing two New York papers for Harper's as soon as he can. Heine in London and Houghton will have projected a volume comprising a number of his early papers on English aspects and images, with illustrations by Joseph Pennell, a companion volume to James's Little Tour of France written 3-4 years ago and reissued. Duneka's firm controls situation of Essays, etc. there with Mr. McIlvaine. Houghton writing Duneka today. #6251-z

Sends a few words to bless him as he begins his course. Saw Alicia Anderson who showed him photos of his magnificent figure, which was a joy to behold. Proud of his genius. Hard to hear of his continued attacks of vertigo. Hard to think of his solitary voyage, being affected by the heart and that James might fail to see him. Sails for England July 4. Will be in Boston in late June. Told of his plans to sail from Genoa early in summer. Shall be back in Lamb House July 15. His monuments are over the head of all the "stupids" there, but there are individuals who are not impenetrable and hopes that for them he is bringing large pleasure. The man stretching his mighty arms is very great triumph, the finest thing he has done. #6251

Thanks for her note with sympathy for her bereavement. The 26th the more advisable day and will take the 4:09 from Grand Central. May she live gently in her altered state and life. #6251-al, #6251-bj

Answering his questions on his preparation of bibliography of James's writings. He abhors bibliography, and his principle is to find it impossible to give them any furtherance. His unearthing early unsigned reviews in the Atlantic and North American Review only fills him with the bitterness of woe. Of article contributed to Balleon Post , Boston, 1871, he has no recollection. " Cousin et Cousine ," 1876, must have been a translation of "Four Meetings," he is at sea about them. His good will almost brings to his eyes tears of remonstrance for misapplied effort. His asking where "Transatlantic Sketches" appeared makes him wonder why and how any such wretched little question can matter to anyone. Helps no intelligence to feed itself on such twaddle; millions of miles removed from any real critical play of mind. With note from Ned [Berkeley] to Waller [Barrett], n.d. #6251-aa

Sails tomorrow morning, and goes without seeing him. Will write if things are going well, and when he will return. Hopes he is feeling better. #6251

May he come to tea on Tuesday the 28th? Shall be in town. Forgive frantic brevity. Returned from America Thursday. He is under mountain of arrears; squeaks from under it like a mouse. #6251-o

Since she gave the option, he can manage club lunch on the 25th. Doesn't know its name, but knows its door. #6251-o

His letter from Gibraltar is a sad enough story. Prepared for his visit in vain. Remembers their first hour together in Boston, etc. When shall they meet again? Grim years pass. His time in America was to his profit and gain. Non-communication difficult, as weighty things about his priority, work, plans, fountain must be discussed. Could have talked beautifully and intimately there [Rye] but they have to wait too long. Still wondering what American community is going to want to pay for thirty to forty stark naked men and women of whatever beauty, and lifted into raw light of a public place. Hideous he's not there and wants to be. Glad he is physically well and confident. #6251

Hears nothing. What has become of him? Afraid he may have fled. Takes refuge that he may be free to come down to him for day or two. Write that he may look for a couple of nights of him. Original tipped into Letters of Henry James to Walter Berry, PS 2123.A53 B4 1928. #6251-a

Feels deplorable not to have acknowledged The Marriage of William Ashe, which awaited him on his return from America three weeks ago. Returned amid much confusion and many complications, correspondence, etc. after nearly a year's absence. Hasn't yet been able to put himself into possession of William Ashe. Everyone in the United States was reading him, but will finally overtake it. Asks her to accept a copy of an American edition of The Golden Bowl. Appalled in returning to England, to see the awful shape Methuen had put it, in which no one has been able to read it. Heaven speed the day they may meet. #6251-a

Thanks him for the postcard. If Anderson could only do a pot boiler like that Atlas. Write him from Montefiascone to make up for James' lacking Anderson. Tell him of any good that came to him in the United States. If only Anderson could have been with him. #6251

Horrible that James is so silent: their letters are grand little moments. Wanted to send Quarterly Review and his article. When he thinks of Anderson in Rome restored to his expensive family of naked sons and daughters of all sizes and ages, to say nothing of prancing animals, he knows not what to imagine. Applauds his courage and gallantry of his purpose, patience and concentration with all his heart, and prays powers may be given his aged eyes to see him successfully through again goes over their too few American hours and all they did. #6251

Can't keep his hands off him. His sense of wonder in reading his little French volume so insists on overflowering. Finds him strangely interesting. Lost in admiration of his so cunning, so savante French form: it is performance of a brilliant and difficult feat, brought off so remarkably; as well as the way of so intimate a visitation of the marvelous old France of which it has been his own pathetic fate to see so little. Will dream to make up for that. Reading has always been experience and when it is reading him truly, it has been charming for him. Was going to say he doesn't see why he did it in French. Must be exquisite intellectual sport so ingenuous with the matter. No readers save for poor solitary James. Envies his equipment of knowledge and references. Wants to turn him out to fresh fields and renew his vibrations and secretions. Unfortunate that here is but one history and romantic France. What would become of his English, for which James has a sneaking fondness? His work is a gallant tribute to his French sympathies. Would he like a small volume of a couple of lectures James delivered in the United States? Wants to send something. Hasn't been published there yet. #6251-m

Printed Christmas greeting. #6251-an

Gives him an affectionate blessing. Substitute for a horrible New Year's card which he can't dishonor self or him by sending. Send a postal telling James how much he doesn't hate him. Must hold on until they meet. Miserable how months and years go by and how little they do meet. Tell him he is well, and that his strength is equal to his work, and his courage equal to his life. Hopes his work grows and lives. #6251

The prospect of thirty six hours with her is indeed that of "the glow, the thrill of life," after many eremite months. Fears he has a great deal more to hear than to tell. #6251-a

Intensely moved by his beautiful letter, with sympathies as rich as lover's vows. Asks himself why strange fate keeps them so hideously separate. His perceptions and vibrations represent all the response the genius of poor James seems likely to be permitted to have become sensible of, more grateful than he can say. He is safe with him, and whole to him. Wishes some turn of the screw that will throw him with a full weight on his always Henry James. #6251-m

Will she come to Sesame February 12th? Will be thankful for her support. Comes to town for 3 months, and this will give him facilitation for making up arrears. He has been buried there, busy and inhuman, purely by book-making and universally dumb. Give him an early chance at her new Adelphia Terrace repoure . #6251-o

He doesn't go out to dinner: it's a proceeding he has forsworn and abhors. He would go to the stake on it; he was entrapped last summer in the hideous "midnight sun" of the Carlton. No more. Encloses ticket [not present] for her to get into the Sesame. #6251-o

Autograph note by Henry James on verso of envelope. Thanks for note and photographs of group. Speaks of this, his fine contributions to this interminable series. Criticizes "hands" and "backs" and how to improve them. Wishes he could stand in Anderson's crowed workshop and discuss these things. Patience, that will happen. Says no word of his head or his health. Only hopes he is exempt from physical woe. #6251

Will come to tea March 1 at 5. It will be delightful to find himself again in her haunted parlor. #6251-a

Hoping for her sign. On the 27th, quite alone. He will be at 10 Adelphia Terrace, but make it 5 sharp. #6251-o

Friday is impossible; now must grovel in reparations. It's death to him to meet new women and make no acquaintances. Notes, dinners, etc. are soon. Forgive this savagery. #6251-o

Can't do either; admirable and endless are her gracious bounties. Would she come to tea with him at Princess Restaurant? He has no club now where he can entertain females. Will explain his harsh unpredictability. #6251-o

Her note has a ring of sadness and sympathy. When they meet he shall urge her to meet in a more enterprising and adventurous way. Perhaps they can do something before tea. He will give her 2-3 ideas, and he shall appear in a hansom at four if she makes no contrary sign. #6251-o

His proposal about 10 Court very kind. Saw "Hypolitus " last night, and was so struck with it. He will return with a friend so can't avail himself of Friday, but he shall be ready for him at 105 Pall Mall at 2:30 sharp. #6251-g

He has been for sometime restored to comparative calm, though the annual American flood is setting in and he is divorced from intimacy with improper person of Babylon. Forgive his atrocious manners. Will make her a sign as soon as he can steal back a little, and he has more questions about her than he can utter. #6251-o

Talks of Anderson's letters and why James delays answering them. Says recent letter with Kodak views of self and family cheered him because they tell of Anderson's health, energy and might, so that James wonders at Anderson and is proud of him. His production is prodigious and heroic, very beautiful and interesting. Talks of men and ladies flaunting their bellies and bottoms and other private affairs in the face of the day. Is there any American possibility to laud them? Knows how it distresses him, but pays tribute to his noble imagination, his wealth of composition, combination, creation, and splendid sense of the body and the members. Detailed criticism follows of faces, hair, legs, etc. of the figures. Prefers to dwell on things of great beauty that Anderson constantly does. Any chance of crossing the Alps to visit him? No place so peaceful as Rye. He does well to carry a gun. #6251

Telegram asking if he come down Monday or Tuesday from Charing Cross, spending the night. #6251-g

Responding to two of his letters. Returned just yesterday having been drawn into complications of travel and time-expenditure than he at all desired, though they were enjoyable enough. The Hereford marriage was one, and was tempted to visit the wonderful Welles, where there was an exquisite cathedral where he dined with the bishop in his marbled palace. As for his lucid and excellent long letter, he sent it to his father. Doesn't see why he should be shut up at Giverny with him: of all the artists in the world! Nothing could be more satisfactory and interesting than the account you made of your actual conditions and feelings, fidelity apart. James concerned about him joining four compatriots. Make sure that he does so only if he is strongly moved to join them. Holding back on letters of introduction because he doesn't want to disturb him. #6251-av

Shall expect him Monday to stay overnight, as no good train returning to London. #6251-g

Doesn't have much news for him. The unfolding of his genius and career is what keeps them in suspense. Hears that his father is leaving for Chocorua. Hopes they sit there very light this summer. Mentions J. B. Warner and his wife, who is ill and being sent to a sanatarium. It has been horridly cold and backward till yesterday which ushered a blessed little burst of summer. Asks if he is with the little band of the Rue Bonaparte? Paris must be splendid and summery. P.S. Considers, since the weather is so beautiful, to rush over to Paris to see him, but he is too pressed with bleated work. P.P.S. Just found a letter which settles all his concerns about Bill's father. Although it concerns him that they have that wretched small child of the Salter's adoption. Where are the Salter's and why this incubus? What golden words the dear Dad is liable to drop. #6251-ar

They seem to have produced queer results, but 3 profiles are interesting. The smallest is quite beautiful, and best for his purpose. Important for Coburn to see his little house. Could he come down by earliest train? Will return photographs then. Rejoices they have got portrait. #6251-m

Will come on the 11th with pleasure though doesn't much count on the adamantic Sarah. Perhaps he can come with her. Will spend Sunday at Osterley. What a beautiful garden for irrigated humans more than for drying up flowers. Glad he is gardening in Piccadilly. #6251-m

Glad Sarah W. does consent. She has put off crossing to Paris to so this. Tells of his forthcoming days to Osterley, etc. #6251-m

Will come in Friday a.m. Rejoices in good fortune of Rye impressions and eager to see them. #6251-g

How fortuitously it seems that he kept silent since he last heard from him days and days ago with the letters enclosed from Peg and Alice. Just recently returned home from the other side of London. Right now having a wonderfully real and rare summer. Difficult for him to make it over to Paris because of many reasons. Would rather see him come visit him. Meanwhile he has no word from home and returns Peg and Alice's letters in case he hasn't answered them. At least counts on him coming in August. George and Emily Higginson of the University of Chicago visited for three days. #6251-ar

Talks of letter and pictures. Formidable vision of his working there during Roman summer, with no reward but the sight of his expensive family. Says nothing of his health or chance of a visit. Critical of statues' faces, bottoms, etc. Must come and tell him all about his work. #6251

Glad to have his postcard telling him he is out of torrid Rome, and splashing in the Adriatic. Glad his family is there too. Longs for him alone. In October? #6251

A blessing to receive his letter from The Hague, for he has been worried over his not being able to communicate with him. Encloses a delightful letter from his mother [not present]. Gives reasons why he didn't write to him, primarily that he didn't tell him where he would next be long enough to get letters. Glad he is heading back to Paris, for he yearns to visit him there for a while. Probably has reasons for thinking it best not to stay, but wants to discuss, very discreetly, why he plans on returning to Boston. Discusses beauty of Lamb House Gardens despite three rainless months. Take good care of his mother's letters and bring them back: they represent a pretty good recent series of weeks for his mother and father. Make sure his mother has little to "do" over the next year. Hopes Peg sticks to Bryn Mawr. Wants to hear all about Holland. #6251-ar

Glad for news. Welcomes him back from his adventure of a Southern and African summer. Hopes he is so busy with international hanging that he doesn't feel abnormal heat. Come down when he can, to do the other indoor photograph. Will be there for the next two months. May he have back that volume of The Princess Casamassima : it is unique, he fears, of its kind. Glad he is going to Paris for Faubourg St. Germain picture. #6251-g

Only the abnormal heat prevented him from condoling her over the appalling adventure of which her note gives him the faint echo. His sympathy accompanied her on general instinctive grounds. It struck him as a bold and desperate campaign. What a beast of a time she must truly have had! Thanks for her melancholy word. Hope she is rested and not melted. #6251-a

Has his good note and returned volume. Will 21st suit him to come down for another "go" at the little old house? Hopes his exhibition opens with promise. #6251-g

Can put him up. Shall pray for a luminous day. Has arranged regarding Hardwick. Has received "Country Life " July 21 with article and interesting illustration on and of it. #6251-g

Thinks it superlatively virtuous even heroic of her to have written him so liberal and beautiful a letter under her strain and stress, etc. Will come to her November 19. Thinks it heroic of her to plough through The Golden Bowl which nothing could have induced him to do, if he hadn't been the author. The work has merit, but it's too long and the subject is pumped too dry. He shall never again do anything so long-winded. Finds that he can't read new fiction himself, and is lost in wonder at the strange law that condemns him to write it, and to assume a reading of the same by others, unlike himself. They will talk of the wondrous idea of her going to America. She must let him indoctrinate her up to the eyes. Is he a convert, she asks? A fanatic, he replies. Found the perpetual gregarious and loquacious feeding of the United States very detrimental to it, and though he clung to the theory there, the practice went to pieces, but he has come back to it since his return. #6251-a

All about Coburn's activities in Paris, and chance he will have before his James's nephew arrives. Doesn't doubt he will find enough right things in number he does. Shall be eager to see all he has done. #6251-g

Correspondence entitled, "For the Paris Subjects. " Notes to Coburn about what he was to photograph for the New York edition of James's works. Mentions certain streets, buildings, etc. He will recognize specimens by walking around Faubourg St. Germain. Look out for objects not hackneyed and commonplace and panoramic, something that will serve in connection with The Ambassadors ; yearns for outside aspect of Theatre-Francais to use in Tragic Muse. Do something of Odeon Theatre and its classic colonnade for The Ambassadors ; also the Luxembourg Garden for same book. Bring him something of garden statue there. Rake in one or two big generalizing glimpses or fragments, even of Arc de Triumph, as second volume of Princess Casamassima might use them. Includes autograph corrections. Typed on cover of envelope: "Memoranda for Paris. From Henry James. "#6251-g

Appreciates letter with excellent news. No doubt he will be able to take his pick. Yearns to see them. #6251-g

Touched to read his distracted little card. Understands, but had hoped with no confidence that his being there would happen. Never expected Anderson could bear expense unaided, but had hoped to help. Hoped they could meet in Paris as shall go to the continent this winter. When Anderson speaks of his poverty, he could howl with anguish that he does no pot-boiler, but only his vast stripped, sublime Family with their myriad penises and bottoms, and other private armament. How can he ever financially "realize" compensation in America? #6251

Good news. He will be in town week of the 29th and will take day and hour for inspection of everything. Have as much of Sheffield as possible to show him, for he is trying to think of some connection of that place in his works. #6251-g

Is Friday the 2nd too late for him to come in and pore over his Impressions? If time suits him, will be there to the minute, and keep a couple of hours clear of everything else. #6251-g

Wrote to address given regarding plans to see him, but no word. Hopes time will suit him for James to feast on all he will have to show him. Congratulates him heartily on Sheffield. #6251-g

Will she go to see Lucy Clifford and also the play, and report to him how they seem to her? He wants to know how the poor woman is now, and if the play will go on. It will be a balm, as he is out of the current of such knowledge down there. Follows her with interest but not a shred of envy in her instant plunge into the London whirlpool. Will not dine with Mrs. S or with anyone in London, ever, ever, anymore. Their next dinner must be in Rye. #6251-o

Returning from five days in London. No news to report. Discusses how lectures are a dire time for Bill's father, and that James gathers with intense relief that they are "quiet." Seems they are very frustrated of having the German pair stay with them. Mentions of Peg's homesickness. She will adjust herself, and on the whole like it, though doubts if she stays the full time. Bill mentions his time with [Henry] Adams and of his hospitality which gives James great pleasure to hear, his being so kind in spite of his so irresponsible self-conscious extravagant pessimism, the fruit, not wholly unnatural, of a disappointed and ineffectual personal career. James owes Adams a letter soon. James yearns over Bill perpetually. #6251-aw

Thanks Bill for his and his mother's letters. Pictures Bill more cheerful and accommodated at the hotel. Rather have him take his food there than having to prowl out in the black wet night when he doesn't want to. Bad weather for James, too, and has been one long, unbroken deluge. Your Mother's letter is full of interesting things and evidently your Dad is in a good working way. Mrs. Gardner has written that she will come to London December 1st. Hopes Henry Adams is still in Paris. #6251-ar

Waited to acknowledge his touching, harrowing letter about his indigestion and dyspepsia: trying to get them together. Root of his disorders lies in the lonely insanity of his manner of work. Tension of fantastic number of figures on which he is realizing nothing, neither money nor judgment. Attempting what no young artist ever did, putting his eggs into an extremely precarious and perforated basket. Stop his multiplication of unsaleable nakedness for a while, and hurl himself into the production of the interesting, charming, vendible, the placeable small thing. With his talent, he can easily. If he were near, he would take him by the throat, and make him do his best. Must get to busts. It is only by the face that sculpture can hope to live, and it is so supremely and exquisitely interesting to do. Have patience with his words. Wants to see Mrs. Gardner who has seen Anderson lately, and will give him his news. Long discussion of health system "Fletcherization," which James has adopted and which worked off all his ailments. It has renewed his elderly life, and might help Anderson. #6251

Could he come to him at Reform Club with the prints December 1? It will save him from his eccentric quarter. Thrills with desire to see how the curiosity shop comes out, and also with the fear that an inside National Gallery is what he must have if they have it at all. Will name few other subjects. This makes complications in view of his near departure. Can get on two or three American subjects. #6251-g

Her incisive letter, so prompt and interesting of their admirable and much tried friend's theatrical adventure. Afraid the career of the thing will be short. She judges erratically, in speaking of subject as bad, and treatment as skillful. She will try again, as she has lost the power and habit of doing anything else. He sits tighter there, and throws a log on his solitary fire. #6251-o

Has just written Constance Fletcher in Venice in Palazzo Capello, which is old house he had in mind for the Aspern Papers . Told her what he wants Coburn to do inside and out. Details how to get there and how to photograph it, and how it figures in the story. Tells where to go for another picture. Don't choose the pompous or obvious things. P.S. Take two or three subjects to show Fletcher. #6251-g

Follow up letter about all the subjects. Forget The Awkward Age in one volume, for which some English subject he doesn't at all see must be managed. Another omission: "In the Cage, " a London corner with a grocer's shop containing a postal telegraph office. Won't want any photographs of Studio and probably will not want any of Washington Square. For little tale, "Europe, " will want an American view: Cambridge, Massachusetts if possible. There will be 24 volumes: six novels in two volumes, 3 novels in one volume, four volumes of shorter novels, and four volumes of short stories. Have made or fixed plates for all novels except The Awkward Age . Shall want only one New York view and one other American view in addition to Four Meetings . All makes only twenty-two subjects required in addition to portrait. May not be necessary to go to Venice. Take no steps until he hears. Four subjects yet to find: one for The Awkward Age , one for 2nd volume of short stories, and one for 3rd volume of short stories. #6251-g

Here is permit [enclosed] to photograph the Wallace Collection, Room 21. Take the beautiful subject obliquely with as much of damask on wall as possible. On intense reflection, thinks he had better go to Venice as planned. Wants Casa Cappello. The more foreign plates they have the better. May want London grocery, too. Enclosure: "Permission to Photograph " the "Chimney Piece in Gallery XXI " in the Wallace Collection, December 8, 1906. #6251-g

Rejoices in his good news and yearns over his results. He will enjoy Venice with the elasticity of youth. Encloses note for Miss Fletcher [not present]. Will be a thrill to see his developed series of Hampstead, Room 21, and the Venetian triumphs. Gives him ideas to look for. Take something to show at Palazzo Capello: it will inflame them. #6251-g

Grand news! Looks forward to seeing him soon. Will go tomorrow to Reform Club. Hoping he has had time to print. #6251-g

Will come Monday at 2:45 and drive him to the Strand; that will give them an hour. Has just arranged that he shall photograph [John Singer] Sargent! #6251-g

Returning him great prints. His friend preferred them to The Doctor's Dilemma , which they saw afterwards. Desires to have full set at market price of all pictures without exception. Asks him for one shot of corner grocery or Harley Street. #6251-g

Pardon delay in note to [John Singer] Sargent. Must send his own, too. Tells of his studio. Will try to get early to his exhibition, but is glued to his work before leaving Paris next month. Don't lay himself out over corner grocery. #6251-g

House he spoke of is Mr. Head's at 143 Harley Street. If that doorway does, so much the better; it's all they lose by not being able to manage the saloon at the Barbaro. #6251-g

Encloses his check for £30, and remainder shall follow. Delighted to have exquisite pictures and already choosing places for them. Some will go framed on his ancient walls. Tells him what to do in New York in preparation for the American shindig so he and his mother will both enjoy it. P.S. Saw J.B.P. and gave him his message. #6251-g

Thanks him for sending him The American Scene , and for the friendly words written on the fly-leaf. He shall read it with interest, knowing they agree on many points, and will find out what he thinks about the others! Hopes to see him in June. Has request to make of him. His boys tutor, Collison Morley, more a scholar than a writer, has done accompanying notice about [Giosue] Carducci, and wants it printed over his name. Seems to him to contain the right sort of information about the great man, very little known in England. Could James send it to one of the editors he must know? Morley doesn't care much whether article is paid for, provided it appear in his name. He is anxious to get some sort of literary work which he could do there, such as reviewing. Thinks it would help if this were printed in a periodical. If it is too much trouble, he should send it back. #6111-r

Will send Morley's manuscript to a friend in London who will do what he can with it. He will have observed how difficult it is to get anything serious or interesting or decent periodically published in England or the United States, where nothing is cared for, but the most blatant vulgarity or triviality. But he will press the cause of manuscript in question. See Francis Marion Crawford to Henry James, 1907 March 9, regarding Morley manuscript. #6251-w

Just a word to say he is facing towards Paris with lively yearning and immense impressions. There are still to be a few étapes . #6251-m

Very much on the way to him. Left England six weeks ago. Will get to Rome latter part of next month by way of Venice. Must go to Switzerland too. #6251

Noble of him to be faithful to matter of Walkeley's article. Hopes they may be together to get beautiful benefit of it. He must come down and spend 5-6 days at Lamb House. Have some generous patience with him. #6251-m

Thanks for his offer, but better to go to hotel than to stay in his apartment. Tells of his schedule via Turin to Rome via Pisa. #6251

Thought he would see him in England. Congratulates him on decision to come immediately back on comprehension that he wouldn't be able to "stand" America more than 3 minutes. With his recollections of awful New York, quite understands. Give him a sign when settled, and will tell him how New York affects him. Has been 2 months in Paris. Makes him wish their illustrations work there was going on now. #6251-g

So overwhelmed by work, just settled down with his American Scene, which in its peculiar way seems to him supremely great (describes their different writing styles in detail). James's is rummest method to employ systematically as he does nowadays, and he employs it at his peril. Directs him to say it out, for God's sake, and have done with it. Give us one thing in his older directer manner to show he can still write according to cannons for gleams and innuendos and felicitous verbal insinuations, he in unapproachable, but core of literature is solid. Give it to us once again! (end of excerpt). #6251-a

Waiting to reach Italian soil to make him a definite sign. Held up by urgent proofreading, then shall start, via Genoa and Pisa. #6251

Coming to Rome again at end of week; spent three days at Turin after ten weeks in Paris. Will be at Vallombrosa with Ned Bait, then 3-5 days in Florence. Not every prospect pleases him in Italy now, but it is at him as much as ever. However, it's "at" Venice that he really wants to be, at dear old Barbaro and "them." They are the last refuge of peace amid desolation. #6251-ag

His departure from Rome suffers from his motoring with Filippos de Felippis to Naples. Leaves 11th for Florence, then will fly to them. #6251-ag

Alas, he is far away, if you can say "alas" in front of the Bay of Naples on a lovely fresh June day. His invitation reaches him here. Would have come with pleasure had he been in London. Have been abroad nearly four months, and the end is not yet. Hopes to reach home again by the last days of this month and will come then. #6251-bd

Returns from divinely beautiful place: the most beautiful he ever was in, and then shall start for Venice. Longs for splash of Adriatic against their cool water steps. They can have him for a week. He is impatient by waiting. #6251-ag

How kind her excellent words regarding The American Scene . Loves to know book touched in her a chord of interest. It was a difficult job to do, and a projected sequel proved so difficult he has given it up altogether. Coming abroad for so many weeks in Paris, Rome, etc. doesn't make for the retention of American impressions. However, he is facing homeward impatiently. He is never in his life coming abroad again. She alludes to matters of which he wants to hear everything, and he shall knock at her door if she is enjoying the terrible London of June. #6251-a

His retarded, shrunken visit is over, and had difficulty taking place at all. Delighted to come to lunch Wednesday, the 26th. Wants all news of H.F. she can give him. #6251-ai

Delayed thanking him for letter and photos. They all make those romantic Roman days live again. Vulgar world that's not Italy seized him again. Can't believe all the slowly breaking bust, the wild sessions at Aragno's, the wondrous terrace dinner of the last night, etc. were only last month. Never had coming back seemed so flat and common and humiliating. Hopes summer is melting his pains and disabilities away. #6251

Rejoices in his return; too busy to write. Up for night in town on July 31st and will meet him then. #6251-g

He has failed in the most comprehensive matter to keep in touch with for months. Doesn't do anything he needs to. Make plans, etc. as he did before years of infirmities had imposed on him the economics of existence which led him to make so poor a figure to her. Fevered London clashes were made up of appointments, etc. Has become too much and too many for him so he couldn't see her at all because of her social character. She is Society. Ancient quiet of his place is thing of the past: too many visitors. She must come down some autumn Sunday. #6251-o

How can she say the light of literature abandoned their province, when she herself sheds such charming letters. Sorry he was away when she came, as he could have put her up; hadn't meant to be away. Will never do it again. Make him another early sign and follow up on it. #6251-a

Hope she is in same good disposition, and will come to him for the weekend. Will she come 19th, 26th, or November 2? He shall be alone. #6251-o

Shall be at station Saturday at 6:30. He prays for a civil sun. What news of life she is depended on to bring. #6251-o

Jocelyn Perese brought James her kind letter, which has left him almost buried beneath mass of its liberality. Finds her a penetrating and generous reader and much touched by her appreciation of his style. James's people are all dead to him after their getting born. Compliments to J. Perese. #6251-r

All thanks and blessings. I return everything, with one rather painful (saddening) one from your Uncle Bob: his daughters' engagement by such perversity and insanity! Don't return to me, and don't keep this last. I send a letter of Peggy's; it is very interesting and delightful. James only a little disconcerted at his spoken to his family about returning home. Don't, oh Billy, don't! You give James such a turn. It knocks the fond dream he has of going over to see him, which won't be conveniently possible for him till February. Don't make any such projects. It's a great deal better to leave them to themselves for the winter. That is what they are adjusted to. But forgive their outbreak. J. S. Perry's visit was very pleasant, and gathers for him. Extraordinary mildness, if not hotness, right now. Don't desert your fond old Uncle. #6251-av

She appeals to him in name of cherished memories and she sets insidious machinery at work. He hasn't habits or traditions of presiding at anything or introducing anyone, but will face the agony or risk the disgrace, all for the sake of introducing Andre Beaumier at his second conference. Give his love to the inestimable Anne Ritchie. #6251-a

Horrible that his charming letter waited so long for an answer, but James has had a bad time; so much work holds him. Extreme pleasure to hear from him. News sounds good as he doesn't say he was unwell. Grand that things are okay. Holds his breath over the abundance of his inspiration; they will have to build a city to take his work in. James interested in the casting of his bust though scared he thinks him worthy. It will never do for it to be a gift, though his pocket has been empty of ready money. No chance to get bust exhibited in London as only British sculptors have that opportunity, but can exhibit privately. Cast it, photograph it, and send the picture to him, and he will work on getting it displayed. #6251

Beautiful letter. Won't worry him with "value" question regarding bust, but rejoices in hearing of its bronze color. Preparing to receive it by building an altar to perch it on. #6251

There is no London for him March 2. Besides which he had ceased to dine out forever and ever! Leaves him all the more disposable for tea. Can't be in town until April 1. On his return, he will come to tea every Thursday of the hereafter. #6251-a

He has been horribly remiss, because he has been ridden for months by nightmare of an Edition Definitive , or pursued thereby by a pack of hell hounds. The volumes already out, revised, rewritten, etc. It has made him inhuman and remorseless. Then the production of the stage play in the provinces. Be sorry for him and patient; the play is a success in Edinburgh, so he may make the seven and nine pence which has been sordid motive for toil. Received her novel, but no time to read. When he reads critically he is a pig. Goes to Paris after Easter. #6251-o

Touched by their good will towards his poor little stage, play stuff, only three acts and six characters. Did quite beautifully in Edinburgh and then Glasgow. Hopes it will come to London where it will have its chance. On his way back home for 2-3 weeks, then Paris for a fortnight, and May again in town. Met poor Alex Munthe in the street, and lunched with him and his wife, who is to have a baby; it makes the eyesight matter weigh light in the balance. #6251-ag

Going to Paris for 12-14 days, will send him tomorrow fresh copy of "The Saloon" embodying his effort to clarify crux of situation as much as he sees his way to, as yet. Done much to make his act go better, and space has been a blessing. Sends him copy and notes pages where there are changes. Will be in London May 10th for one month and will communicate with him from Reform Club. Wonders if H.G.B. is back and how affected and disposed he is. Taking conclusion of his New York question wholly for granted. #6251-a

Reads his letter, and makes believe he dips into his life. Discusses The American, twice translated into German. P.S. Don't send letter on to Federn. #6251

Greatly interested in her beautiful news, and touched by her impulse to communicate it to him herself. Very charming, wonderful, romantic, etc. What moves him to most enthusiasm is her projected flight to Zanzibar, but it is a superfluous and undesirable complication to a delightful occurrence. It was normal her marriage would bring her westward. He has pleasure of knowing Mr. [Edward W.] Clarke, having dined with him. Congratulates them both. She mustn't sneak away under pretext of Venice without his seeing her. Glad Venice still comes in for her. #6251-a

Horrible he took so long to write; too many complications. Apologizes for being deaf to her appeal and tells her why. Sends check in attenuation of sorry case. It may still help to eke out something. #6251-a

All about a hopeless meeting. Hopes to conjure away blight by seeking her out in Stratford. In town only in snatches of time. Wishes E. Norris might be counted on for a little more of that. Deplored death of his remaining relations. He is a quiet obscure hero of patience and stoicism. He will never leave Torquay: there never was a less Londony man. #6251-a

Charmed by beautiful regularity with which as she shakes the magic boughs, the fruits of her genius fall into his undeserving lap. Diana Mallory has just presented herself. She almost makes him feel as if he were the headlong reader of romance for which he has given up struggling to know himself. It's one hundred to one that she will presently work the miracle. He is sorrier than he can say for all the months that go by without their meeting. It would be in town as he goes nowhere else. Would go if he could find her at Grosvenor Place. Longs to see her. #6251-a

Complicated season of the year with visits, family, etc. Writes about unknown Spanish artist Bacarisas who is coming to London for an exhibition. James sorry for Anderson, with Lincoln's indifference awaiting him. He will help, but has no contacts in art world: a great ferocious special region. Can't help with place to stay. #6251

Wrong in thinking he did not see his exhibition. On the contrary, made use of his ticket. Admires his things: quality of his colorless work. Also drawn to his experiments in color, but not drawn to them yet. If he is going back to the United States don't cut his cables and stay, then they can talk. Doubts he will be in town before he sails. Probably will have another book to send before he goes; rest will wait his return. He is changing the set for him to the English issue. #6251-g

Her note finds him in London, but leaves of necessity for home tomorrow, so no possibility of returning for many weeks. Regrets not seeing her or Rhoda [Broughton]. #6251-a

Delighted to see her there on November 21st for luncheon. Sends cordial greetings to her "sposo" [Edward W. Clarke], not only for the small but for the whole long, or great, occasion to both of them. #6251-a

Sorry not to answer his gentle note before he left London; he was occupied and tormented, and sorry to maltreat him. Hopes he survives all exposures, temptations, and tribulations. Since he couldn't send after extra volumes of editions, he won't have to cart them all over, and they will be there when he returns. Has received no American copies since June 12. Coburn probably having more lively appeals to his interest now. Hopes he is not doing so well that he won't be bettered by a fresh go at London. #6251-g

Has written Scribner to communicate with him for one more frontispiece for another in extra volume of their edition. A New York subject is required, and he is there: story is "Julia Bride. " Get them to give him tale to read, and he will see what picture he may capture: some bit of the Park of the Metropolitan Museum. Do what he can. #6251-g

Talks of using correspondence cards to write letters, and of sitting alone New Year's Day and remembering days gone by. Sorry to have missed her. Heard from the Benedicts that she is on the way to Cooperstown. She and the Benedicts have immortal youth, while he is rooted there. Come see him some day. #6251-ac

Has two things from him: appeal for mention of his authorship of frontispieces, and his very suitable picture for extra volume. Shall commemorate him, appreciately, in last preface of the lot; that of The Golden Bowl . Couldn't have tackled business of the illustrations without him. Rejoices over news of Hammersmith residence. Do return with choices and charmingest horrors of New York; no one else will so appreciate or understand them. #6251-g

Kind of her to care for news of the small comedy of things, and to have taken pleasure in Jessie Allen's rosy report of it. It is a pot-boiler of 14-15 years ago, treacherously not done then by Ellen Terry for whom he wrote it. Disinterment after long years. It's his only little attempt to "write down" to the common intelligence of the awful London theatregoers. Can't think of Maud Story without anguish; what a tortured life! [John Singer] Sargent is doing magnificence for Boston; he has sold all of his watercolors to the Brooklyn Museum of Art. The Queen came to see him while James was there, looking a beautiful 30! #6251-ag

She is not forgotten but he has had troubles and complications this winter. He has been depressingly unwell, though better now. Summer and autumn he swam in deep sea of family element. His pitch of life is lowered, which at his advanced age is an excellent thing. Think of him in a minor key. The Velvet Glove is the expiring kick. Shall come up to town for a month. "The Dancing Girl " a greater success than Henry Arthur's. #6251-o

Will sign English Review that she may send, with pleasure. Is The Velvet Glove in the numbers? He is not eager for an overwhelming female electorate, and he doesn't see how any man in his senses can be. #6251-o

Has an awful arrears of correspondence, which has snowed him in. Thanks for information on the next Ballot, but finds himself at a disadvantage for any sort of participation, so that he is tempted to ask him to not count him in at all. Confesses that he doesn't make out what we mean, or are, or intend or design or represent, what our organization is all about. The most recent document sent him was as vague and colorless and neutral to an uninspiring degree. Enough cut out for a "Rhadamanthine institution in this age and in these lands of the triumphant Cheap and Vulgar." Nothing vague or ambiguous or non-committal interests appeals in the least. We can do nothing without exasperation. We need that wholesomely stern state of the spirit before we need Money, which seems so dreadfully easy to come by. Regarding potential candidates, Owen Wister and Frank Millet. Thanks further for information about the new American copyright arrangements, although they help, at the same time they are not graceful. #6251-as

Has been in town one week and left instructions for pile of volumes to be sent him once he is settled. Tell him which ones are missing, and he will supply them. Will come out and see him. Hopes confusions are subsidizing, and satisfaction great in his new home. #6251-g

Will put off visit until everything conspires to captivate, as it will. Rest of volumes will have come by then, direct from Lamb House. #6251-g

He has thought about her invitation to contribute 3,000 words on the question of "A Future Life " to a symposium in Bazaar this summer. He will be glad to send paper by August 1, but doesn't think he does himself or his situation justice by assenting to $200. If she will make fee $300, he will proceed with matter. P.S. Should likely make it 4,000 words. #6251-a

Rejoices in his health, his work, and in everything that is his. Hasn't had a very brilliant winter or spring, but he is 99 years old, but in better form now than for many months. In London 3 weeks, but home soon. Yearns over his Roman beauty and wishes he could be with him. The grand, green bronze, beautifully placed in his dining room niche, looks down upon him three times a day with his kindness and spirit rather than with any character of James's in its fine, blank green eyes. #6251

Will come Monday at 5 with pleasure, to see array of his treasures of every description. #6251-g

Has been beneath the wave of the London deluge and has been to Cambridge for May Week. Wonders if she would lunch with him at [Premier's?], Piccadilly, or tea, but lunch will grant more gratifying talk to her faithful old friend. #6251-y

Hears with pleasure her proposal for "Immortality, " his contribution to Bazaar will be $300. #6251-a

Appreciates her sympathetic letter. The article in the Times Literary Supplement on his American editions by Percy Lubbock is a beautiful and intelligent thing, and it gives the greatest pleasure. It does that young man great honour, but it does him no less. It is soon for him to give way to elation at sixty six! But it does seem to suggest that's the more or less interpretive critic; let them hope that may be verified. Expects a relationless year, so he hopes to see her. Understruck at all her magnificent activity. Accepted his own similitude to the lumbering tortoise, and is trying to practice the motions of that animal on the stage of the Haymarket and elsewhere. #6251-a

He must have seemed absent and silent since their arrival in England: June and July days fill themselves more and more in the country, not less than in London, with complications, etc. He simply fled from London. Now back. Glad they are to be in York, even at price of motoring which he hates when he sees, hears, or smells it. Cars show the land and the world as nothing else does, and he is grateful they have come before he passed away. Great thing is they will be in England for some weeks, and he will come up to meet them in town. Discusses Dedham Church window and the murder of Sir. C. Wyllie who deserved such treachery as little as a man could. Thanks for her allusions to Percy Tublock's article in the Times Literary Supplement , which he found charming, and the most appreciative and fine tribute he has ever received. No leaving England for him this autumn. #6251-ag

Had a small image of his charming place in Naples. Glad he's out of dusty Rome, to which he will return with more gallantry for the temporary rupture. Photographs show magnificence of his productions and of his being in good health. They represent the bravest and finest work he has done, with marked progress and increase of power. Admires his passion, confidence, and courage. Prays for something like the good old days to recur. #6251

Will come September 24th for the weekend. Shall be delighted to see his two letters on Robert Elsmere reprinted in her new introduction to that volume. Only dimly remembers their contents. Alas, his utterly hopeless inability to read any fiction; he hasn't read a single Jean Christophe volume. But she will tell him about him, and that will be better. #6251-a

A post script to correct a small item in the previous letter. Will come the 25th to stay until the 28th. #6251-a

Fears without her letter he should miss them. Goes on a "staying" visit, etc. and thanks Lady Kenmore for luncheon invitation, and rejoiced not to fail of seeing them. #6251-ag

Mails the complete final text of Italian Hours [not present], that is the revision of the corrected Proofs. Earnestly begs to make corrections. Gives detailed list of exact corrections. I will send the corrected Preface title. #6251-ay

Her preface is admirable. She tells things about the history of the book that only add to the wonder and dignity of it. What a wonderful young woman she was. Glad to see his letters bear exposure so well, and her publication of them does him great honour. It is within the month that they must meet. Greets her as her "faithfullest old friend of 'nearly thirty years.'" #6251-a

Sends her back beautiful proofs with thanks for acute pleasure of reading them. Finds her story vivid, charming, and interesting. As an old crafty practitioner himself, he can never read fiction artlessly, or innocently enough, criticizing as he went, but he felt with her beautiful material he should have kept the whole thing: the whole impression and emotion. Canada will crown her with pretty laurels. #6251-a

Writing Macmillan's to send him volumes he lacks. Has had to wait until issue of all twenty-four volumes before giving new order. Complications of giving away sets in two countries still awaiting royalties. Glad to hear of fruition of his own big job. Must show it to him. Sorry he had to take to his bed. He himself is just up after vicious attack of gout. When he finds time will be on the prowl for another London undertaking, for which J. Pennell, alas, is making the drawings. #6251-g

Her note reminds him of dismally long gap in their communication, but he keeps staying in country, which is a great good for him: a life saving restriction. The first time he comes up, he will knock at her door. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Touched by arrival of brave and beautiful masterpiece, a splendid, even a reckless present. Congratulations on beauty and richness of prints. Hopes they will bring him honor and lucre. Gives few small criticisms, more subjects, etc. to include in second series. Criticizes H. Belloc's introduction. Asks again about missing volumes of Henry James's Complete Works . Postscript from James on verso of envelope. #6251-g

Heartily congratulates her on the felicity of her being able to put to the test his description of the most exquisite experience in life. Rejoices to think of her in those splendid, delicate halls. Will come up for three months after the New Year. Shocked by her news of poor old Mrs. B. and those children of misfortune. Give his love to their admirable padrone . Is in London for two to three weeks. #6251-a

He is always at Rye, but the drawback is that he goes for so long without seeing her. The remedy is her coming down for a couple of nights. He is more and more aged, infirm, and unattractive. They can have a long jaw with lots of arrears to make up, and a short walk. Weekend would suit him. #6251-t

Would have given him pleasure to see her, but received in post her letter and one from Ford Madox Hueffer; regrets position she is in with respect to divorce proceedings to be taken by Mrs. Hueffer. Makes all their communications impossible. No letters, etc. Disconcerts him, but he cannot write otherwise. Very sorry to have to do it. #6251-o

Obliged for her letter, but it doesn't invalidate his expression to her on receipt of Mr. [Ford Madox] Hueffer's letter. Doesn't see how dangerous her name may figure in divorce proceedings. Could see her only if he avoided Ford Madox Hueffer's wife's private affairs. [Violet Hunt] says they have been separated for years. He did not know, and that is why conversing with her is impossible. #6251-o

In response to his letter concerning Violet Hunt, Ford Madox Hueffer's companion. James hasn't pretended to judge or qualify the deal, so any act or conduct of Violet Hunt's in connection with past matters is none of his business and destined to remain so. Deplored Violet Hunt being exposed in public proceedings. No old friend of hers could be indifferent to that misfortune. Wishes that his complications may work out into some eventual "peace with honor." #6251-o

His volume arrived: a beautiful black masterpiece, and his responses to James's criticisms of Coburn's work. Also tells him why he is against doing preface for another series of London views. #6251-g

Tender little letter shows his well-being and concentration of labors. Very few men could stand it. Clearly he is made of steel or gold or shining agates. Rejoices he may come to Paris this spring and to him by same strike. Only cloud is he may not be there. #6251

Has been dismally dumb and lost to every sense of decency since receiving little memento at Christmas. Has done 390 things he wanted not to do since then, and one is having two damnable attacks of gout; they ravaged his aged state, and he may have a third one. Has been writing 1,000 letters that accumulated for 10 years. Writing with feet up racked by pain. Insists on sending her best love and blessing. May 1910 be as kind to her as he would fain be himself. Sends belated New Year's gift: a fat book with bad pictures, between is old revived prose. Thank him when she comes to lunch between 13-20th. Greets her adoringly. #1710

Silent, as struggling since Christmas in bad gastric crisis that seems endless. Will send them Italian Hours as soon as he can hustle a little more. Forgive him for giving a note for them to an in interesting young friend, "literary" Hugh Walpole, son of Rector of Chelsea and Canon of Southwick, a descendant of the great Horace Walpole. He will give them recent news of James. #6251-ag

Sister-in-law with him, or he would be down for good and all. Can't write. In framed picture he sent, legs of his hero are persistently too short. #6251

He is still a halting convalescent from interminable dismal illness which has kept him hideously silent, with music of her beautiful voice in his ears. Admirable news she gives makes him feel as if he were up to a letter. Holds out his arms impatiently for a commemorative hug. Grand for both of them, grander that her poor old hermit friend has luck of having key. Wilfred Sheridan whose forbears he knew and admired years ago; they are a pair beautifully matched and gives them a fond benediction. Would push for chair at their table if he was fit for social scene. August 12 he goes to America for several months. Her sketch of basis of their union very vivid. James is emerging and riding to the surface again, though still liable to beastly bad days. Includes a note by Clare Frewen written on outside of envelope: "Henry James on my engagement to Wilfred Sheridan." #6251-a

Painful to wire dear Mrs. Hunter such sad impracticalities on receipt of her invitation. Can't leave his brother in his gravely ill condition. He himself is now emerging from a long illness. They will sail for America on August 12. Imperative that he should go for some months. Regrets not coming to see them again. #6251-ag

In New York until end of month. Communicate when Coburn leaves Boston. Will be glad to see him; so much has happened: dark and sad things. Getting over convalescence of his damnable illness of last winter and summer. #6251-g

Express to committee of The Century his grateful appreciation of their kind invitation offered at the instance of J. L. Cadwallader. #6251-a

Telegram expecting Coburn to photograph him at 21 E. 11th Street tomorrow. #6251-g

Delay in answering due to relapse from which he is picking up. Glad to have news of her bohemian life as he convalesces. Rejoices in her brave account of her heroism. Mrs. Clifford said she wrote something very strange, fine, and fierce somewhere. #6251-o

Responding gratefully to his note. Discusses dental problems. It does him special and sovereign good to reiterate it fondly to you. You will no doubt learn with interest that his consciousness of the high virtue of the mystic girdle has been distinctly confirmed. Gives beautiful assurance of his stout mending. #6251-bl

How horribly he treated Anderson's tender letter regarding his brother's death. He has had a slow, difficult recovery from long and all but mortal illness, and that's all he has been good for. Although better, he won't return to England for 3 months. Won't feel so far from him at Lamb House, and hopes he may come yet again. #6251

Glad he is so near, but doesn't know how to arrange a meeting. Feeling better, he is still at times unwell, and hampered terribly. Where will he go and how long will he stay? #6251

Thanks for her letter of comprehension of her delayed return in respect to his coming to her at Overstrand September 8th. Thanks to his still being on the fringe of recovery from a miserably long illness. Thinks what keeps him from feeling better is desperate desire to get back to dear old England again. Has done nothing last month but pay "country visits." Norfolk not different from Massachusetts, though it is a beautiful place. Hopes she won't have a hot coronation. #6251-m

Can't write at length. Impossible to be sure he will be at Cambridge on July 1 as nothing is sure for him; holding on by the skin of his teeth until August 2 when he will be on the Mauretania for England. Would be admirable if he could go then, but fears his ship is crowded. Far from well, and can't make any appointment with him that would be safe for him to act upon. Shall be in England August 8. #6251

Doesn't know where this will find him. Glad he has escaped the American hell, pure and simple. Has comfort he got off July 2 on the Olympic the same way he escaped August 2 on the Mauretania . Home for a week and all is peace and calm after American furia . Sad business: the passage of months and years without their meeting again. Life workable for Anderson with mighty aid of art. Wants to see him. #6251

Touched by the kindness and fidelity of her letters. They are the first echo of Chocorua since his return to England. Arrived in awful heat and drought. Most distressful general Railway Strike, in fact already bad in the Midlands and the North. Went away from the hot glare of the South Coast and his suffering garden to the refuge of a very kind friend. The railway strike raged on our line when going to London, with dismal delays and uncertainties. Rather a blot on the surface of dear old England, usually so cool and moist and green, so convenient and comfortable. But the case will improve, and one will improve one's self with it. Rejoices in news of her sitting with Bill. Welcomes more than he can say her impressions of dearest Peg's progress. His sister-in-law will be happy to know that he is writing again to Mrs. [ ?] who is finishing the portrait begun of him fifteen months ago. Reminisces of time he and Alice James spent together. The portrait is now practically finished. Painted with remarkable ability, but almost void of real resemblance. Wishes they were all with him yesterday when he motored to Audley End, belonging to Lord Braybrook, but formerly a royal residence. #6251-bg

Glad he is back in Saltino after nightmare of his American adventure. He is glad to have escaped the awfulness beyond the sea. Great heat makes him deadly ill. All is against their meeting together. Only way is for him to come to England before it's too late. Hope long absence from his studio will have refreshed his senses and eased off his tired but still so gallant genius. #6251

Takes great pleasure in letter from Bath, with its report of dear Bill's happy situation. There is no doubt that Bill is "in" very deep. Rejoices that his vision of the young woman and of her sincerity and singleness, as well as her extremely general pleasingness and good looks and good heart and good faculties and intentions leaves him nothing better to desire. Hopes they make a prompt thing of it, and above all glad that Alice (our Alice) has the gratification of it, as she likes her an believes in her and believes in the combination. I send this from a rainless but cool Britain. #6251-az

Glad he is enjoying California, but missing Hammersmith. James returned from America in August, racked with homesickness every hour of the time he was away. Found it more than ever a formidable, fearsome country, difficult to live in and love its immeasurable horde of truculent aliens who bristle with all their reasons for being objected to; he will come back the more conveniently informed. #6251-g

Has had bounties from her during last couple of years, but his graceless silence has remained graceless. Wanted to tell them the great impression their memorial in Dedham Church made on him. Tells of their grand-daughter's engagement. He is in London and will stay through the winter. His long Rye hibernation has come to a close. Hears with dismay of Horatio Brown's menaced sight, but that he will be back for an operation. The Outcry is of 1909, a very delayed issue. #6251-ag

Sorry he cannot come December 1. Has promised to eat with Herbert Jekylls. #6251-a

Has damnable ill-luck. Lady came from Paris on purpose to see him and he is engaged to dine with her, so cannot meet Alice. Asks her to give him another chance. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

How grand and glorious her gift, and how heartily he recognizes its dignity and worth! It will be a great resource and a great "feature" in his modest home. P.S. Has to nurse Richard Maywell until he goes back to Rye on the 20th. London has always been accursedly hostile to blisses, calms, and concentrations of perusal. #6251-a

Great joy at the better turn of his situation. Delighted at his marrying. He and Alice will be able to come to Lamb House and feel at home. It really is a thoroughly pleasant and cheerful little abode. Kidd and Burgess will hurl themselves upon you in an avalanche of devotion. Will be so happy that you will forget for a while to find it dull. Hopes with all his heart their nuptials will go off well and when they sail for Plymouth it will be on a big and comfortable and not crowded German Lloyd. Yearns for every detail of the Chicago Seine. Will get news from Bill's mother and Harry and Aleck. Sad that Peg must be absent, but will be a part of his later life and labors. Wanted to send him a wedding token but now that he is coming thinks it safer to wait. Have had endless rains but for you and Alice they will stop. #6251-ar

Glad he is done with many figured fountain: the huge bare-legs and arms (and everything else bareable, or bearable). Make independent figures now, but make a few purchases apposto , a few specimens of a new, brave race of Americans who can resist the shock of such violent and expensive nudity. Won't send him any fig leaves. Ceased to travel except winter in London. If he comes to Paris, can't he come to London? #6251

Afraid it won't do for him to be godfather of their "blest Babe." He needs a more valid and charming protector than that of James's accumulated and before long concluding years. He has never been able to perform duties necessary for office as he neglects his present godchildren. The lovely child should find a younger, braver, nimbler presence; appreciates their exquisite confidence. He must have been through terrific tension as Clare's crisis was due. With note on envelope by [Clare Sheridan]: "Henry James to Wilfred Sheridan explaining why he declines to be godfather of our child." #6251-a

Will come with great pleasure Monday 29th at 5 p.m. Missed her with regret three days ago, but had compensations. What a charming man, etc. Longs for them all again, with her profusely "thrown in." In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Glad of her good news, that she and Bill don't embark on the Artist's Ball situated as she is. The time and money and energy spent to accept the invitation would be pretty sure to shrink her so out of proportion to the cause or result. So have neither regrets nor fears. James admits he hasn't written much lately which will be remedied. Will come down on Saturday; kindly tell the servants who will "order the carriage" at the station. Thought of her because of the beautiful and balmy weather. Longs to see her. #6251-ar

Will not be possible to come to her tomorrow, as he is literally making no more social engagements. They have become after long years and much dilapidation impossible to him. #6251-o

Sorry that her gentle appeal for "paper" finds him incapable of the exploit; she offers him a delightful audience. He is intensely taken up with pressing work which he cannot neglect for a day. Sends regrets. #6251-m

Struggling out from avalanche of information he let drop on him with his tale of working in the colossal and in the air. James is staggering on his feet after the flu. Breaks his heart for Anderson's mania for the colossal, which is burying him in a bottomless, thankless, fatal sandbank. There is no application of these enormities. Wants to warn him against Megalomania: love and pursuit of the big, the bigger, the biggest. Thinks of him howling for hours on end until he chucked his paraphernalia bravely into the Tiber. As if any use on all the mad earth can be found for a ready-made city. Realize how unspeakably much these cold, desperate words, withholding sympathy, cost him. #6251

Come if he can. It will give James much pleasure. #6251-a

How can he thank her for such a beautiful letter? If being daughter of Puritans doesn't sow the end of such impulses, and being a sister of the Amenities, does long live again that admirable and awful race. Thinks she put a splendid charity on his ill-starred Browning effort. Demoralized by delay before he got to his feet, and lost confidence and courage. Talks of her going to French coast, which she will have to explain as Mrs. [Mary] Ward explains Ulster. Wouldn't mind her being so backward if she wasn't by way of being so forward. His title for Book was unavailable, but second best has its beauty. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Blessed by her note. Deeply interested in her plans. Rejoices that she will come up on the 6th. If she comes up earlier in the day he could take her to two private views in the afternoon. Will take her on to a much more interesting one on Friday that will be very pleasant. She can wind up loose ends back at Lamb House. But he will hold fast to her until the last moment. He takes his honorary degree at Oxford on the 26th and will come back to town on the 27th at nearest. Her days will easily fill themselves at Lamb House. Will go with her to the Tower and to the House of Commons, everywhere, anywhere, but to dine at the Clarks and at the [Lee-Warners]! Could almost weep at her being reduced to the Society of the Marshalls. However, Kidd and Burgess and Jean will make up for them, I hope. Interesting letter from Harry (from Chocorua). There is a most distressing fact in it, that a very long letter that James wrote him never reached him. The explanation is with the tragic Titanic, although James didn't check the date, it must have been posted a fortnight before the Titanic. It's the only letter in all the years that he can remember losing, and it is rather miserable as it will be a difficult one to write over. If she comes on Thursday, won't be able to see her until the next day as he is dining out that night. But he will communicate early. #6251-av

Interested in her reissue of her charming little yearbook, and in finding impression of her beautiful Godinton rise before him. Happy she thinks any words of his may help new volume. She can use his letter which he read over, as it stands, written after first publication of book. #6251-a

His clouds are very artful and beautiful, and his publication most elegant and charming. He has combined photography remarkably with aviation. A couple of his pictures could have been taken only from an "aeroplane." Understands his sense of exile at horribly cheerful, booming, luminous and barbaric Los Angeles; must be a long, drawn-out torture. Remembers how it struck him ten years ago as a cluster of the more ragged fringes and a strangle of deafening and death-dealing car tracks. Get out of it as soon as possible and wash his sore eyes in the balm of the Thames. #6251-g

Returns proof with corrections in punctuation. Would rejoice in a copy of book with his tiny preface, which he hopes won't sink it, but rather float it. #6251-a

Dictated. He is a stricken man and still not on his legs. Has had a devil of a summer through renewal of ailment which he thought subdued: chronic anginal pain. Got better but was smitten with atrocious affliction of "Shingles." Concluded agreement for London flat. Will winter there and spend rest of his days there. Proprietors want a "social reference" so he has given Gosse's distinguished name as a voucher for his respectability. Will take flat December 25. Waiting for new volume of his Dictionary, with his Swinburne. #6251-m

Dictated. His letter consoles and sustains him. Lessars won't apply for character reference if hasn't done so yet. Received Swinburne with pleasure. Discusses book and criticizes it. Has received two of dear old Meredith's letters. Must discuss them, and Wells' book with which he is having extreme difficulty. What lacerates him is meanness and poorness of editing. Must be at it again. #6251-m

Dictated. Thanks him for helping him with fastidious friends of the flat. Interesting note regarding George Meredith. Agrees with his judgment of their marked non-illustration of his intellectual wealth. They make one enormously like him. The whole case is full of anomalies, and these volumes illustrate it. He was starved in many ways, and that makes him more nobly pathetic. Gives own account of his intercourse with Meredith. James slowly mending. #6251-m

Dictated. Forgive this brutal machinery to which he is reduced if he can't delay in responding. Just over a violent and detestable attack of the "Shingles." Letters have piled up. Pain extremely excruciating. Asks Bill if his father suffered from this condition? Or was it you? Remembers his mother nursing one of them. Very dismal because it came upon him when he just got over another illness. Months have not been happy for him. The poisonously cold and wet summer may must have been responsible for his condition. His staff has been ministering angels. Fanny Prothero has been often by his bedside, discussing Alice a lot. Remembers, before his illness, a number of sweet September afternoon turns with Fanny P. all over the countryside: very refreshing and interesting, and always, on the part of those ladies, inquiries and ravings about you. Will be moving to two delightful and sufficiently spacious rooms where he will be able to put up his three servants commodiously enough. October 13: Had to break off letter yesterday. Feels that when he is over this sickness he will be fitter than at any time for ever and ever so long past. Tell Aleck thanks for his beautiful letter. Obtained in London the very good photograph of the Robert Allerton head and that two copies of the same went to Monticello, Illinois. Discussed difficulty in sending previous photographs. Writes about the recent tragedy of the wicked old Brede: little Ghita Stanhope, a friend of Clare Sheridan's, "blew her brains out, in the most gruesome way" some six weeks ago. She was frankly demented. She struck me as the most charming young thing conceivable. October 15: Again had to break off letter. Relapsed again. Lamb House is a good place to be ill, being so honest and true a little nook. Yearns over Peg to the fullest extent. Envies her sinking so deep into Mamma's so deeply sweet hospitality. Send news of Harry's great visions and echoes in New York. #6251-av

Dictated. Protests his imputation of sarcasm in his letter. More discussion of George Meredith's Letters and admiration of Daudets' "Numa Roumestan. " James impressed by non-occurrence of Balzac's name. James still on shaky ground physically; has had many relapses and returns to bed. #6251-m

Dictated. Sympathy to his wife for loss of brother. So it goes, until one has no one left, as he felt two years ago, when he lost his last two brothers and became sole survivor in family. Comments on beautifully done Swinburne chapter in Cornhill in detail and gives own memories of meetings with Flaubert, Richard Burton, et al. Interested in his echo of Haldane's remarks regarding George Meredith. Meredith was an admirable spirit, if not an entire mind; he throws out splendid moral and ethical "spiritual" lights. Trying to keep mainly out of bed again. #6251-m

Dictated. Has been laid up 3 weeks with "shingles." Still most sorry, but is working off some correspondence. Can make no social adventure. He feels chapter of "social adventure" forever closed and he must go on for the rest of his days at home. He is aged, infirm, unsociable, and detached in the political game which forms the constant carnival for young people. Has view of coming to town after Christmas, and reserves the social adventure of tea at Grosvenor Place as the highest crown of his confidence. Glad she has finished a gallant piece of work. More than he can say for himself after a summer of stiff frustration. #6251-a

Dictated. Thanks her for expression of kindness. Doing his utmost to get better. Yearns when he thinks of the balm of talking with her. Wrote to H. G. Wells who sent him "Marriage," but would rather have written her. With him he felt irrelevant and vain and ineffectual. Strange, in his affair, the coexistence of so much talent with so little art, so much life with so little living! Thinks him more interesting by his faults than he will probably manage to be in any other way, and he is a vivid and violent object lesson. Envies her the jollity of having polished off a brilliant coup and celebrating the case in Paris. Enter into a relationship with Mrs. [Edith] Wharton, if convenient, if she is back from the last of her dazzling braveries of her far excursionism. She may be able to appease his always lively appetite for news of her. Don't acknowledge this letter in any manner with all else she has to do. Talks of young people vs. aged and infirm. Asks her not to pity him his dim exclusion; the past words seem to him the very measure of intellectual insipidity, rather than representing the "salt-of-life" as she put it. #6251-a

Dictated. So unwell he must dictate. Longed for news of him. Had very bad summer with dreadful pain from shingles. Rejoices in his fine air of prosperity and success. Still hopes to meet. #6251

Dictated. His dream touches him more than he can say, but what he doesn't see is the application of the vast puzzle, or the steps to convert it into reality. Dousing him with cold water again when he only meant to spray him and his sublime good faith and his splendid imagination. Abominable shingles have been known to last three months, and he is a three month case and curiosity. #6251

Dictated. In dismal arrears with Bill and Alice, but responds to their letter. The days are better for him. The move to town has been very helpful, and his situation couldn't be better. Jane and Wilfrid and Emily Sargent are the fondest, faithfullest little neighbors. Kidd came back in rapture at being restored. Kidd is really a heroine, of judgment as well as devotion. Please keep an eye on her in respect to the eventual future. Most importantly, James takes great pleasure in their present turn of life. Glad he was in Boston recently, as it helped James see and feel their condition. February 5: Had to break off letter yesterday. Forgive him. Still recovering from sickness which has been sticking to him like a poisonous plaster. Dr. Wheeler continues to help, though he has seen rather remarkably few doctors. Many specifics about James's sickness, but tells them not to worry. Happy to hear that his blest Aleck will be sailing to see him June 10th. Bill and Alice must be the most howling social successes that Boston has ever known. Wishes he could be there to show how howling the old uncle finds them. Discusses work on his sitting-room walls by Earnest von Glehn. #6251-av

Dictated. Thanks her for finding time to write, in her crowded and complicated life. He has had to give himself up to having a sudden ailment looked after, which is being successfully done. Glad she has been kind to Hugh Walpole, on whom nothing good or fine is wasted. He is a valued, young friend and he cherishes him. Egging her on to read Fortitude is another matter. It's doing well may not be an enlightening thing for him. Hasn't been to Paris in five years. Would rather go to Hoxton to hear Chevrillon on Galsworthy. To hear it rubbed in would be the end of all things. He took his paper in the Revuee for a strange and cruel practical joke, or a piece of macabre irony. When the French are bêtes , they bring to their bêtise the same perfection they bring to everything. Envies her the luxury of her mornings of perusal. P.S. Should be delighted to see her there if she found the pilgrimage convenient. #6251-a

Silent because endlessly ill and unable to write. Upset at his ghastly question as to whether he is offended with him. More than he can bear. Illness since 1910 is something he has not recovered from and never shall. #6251

Appreciates his generous letters. James's travel powers of every sort is dead and finished. Hopes he will come in his young might to England, and they will embrace over the abyss of their differences in years and conditions. Greatly rejoices in his, and bears his own really quite well. #6251

Touched by his tender participation, but must not think of him now, for James has a compromised life as one may well have at his age. Doesn't miss his freedom of range if he can only stay as he is. Just received the splendid printed sheets from him. Pleads with him against a size of page that defies human handling: people won't read what they can't, such as the huge folios. It is very handsome, but judges expensive. Pardon his depressed tone, but he can't leap and bound. #6251

Happy returns of the day; when he reads their names he will see they represent many different degrees of association with him. Old friends and new friends attached to him by long standing intimacy and affection. They all love and honor him, and welcome the opportunity of telling him with one voice. He is the writer, the master of rare and beautiful art, in whose work creation and criticism meet as they have never before met in our language. Their sense of the genius by which a power so original is brought under the ancient discipline of art is expressly offered symbol of The Golden Bowl . He is also the friend they know and love. Another present they wish to give him; let one of them paint his portrait, and accept it as a gift to him and to the country in which he has made his home. Photocopy of a group letter sent to Henry James on his birthday signed by "Friends and Admirers" which includes approximately 242 names. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Dictated. Silent because he has had a winter of unwellness. Now consists on taking self for better, and wants to see his great works and their author. #6251-g

Acknowledges with boundless pleasure the beautiful letter for his birthday. Emotion is too deep for stammering words. Was drawn to London long years ago, and now sees his faith was to sink deeper foundations. Makes him feel highly successful and extremely proud. Pays best respects for 250 pairs of hands and the inestimable bowl which he will admire as he sits for his friend Sargent. #6251-a

His offer regarding Paris very handsome, but of no use to him. Suggests possible photographs. Wishes he had got him to do vast New York sky-scraper hotel. Maybe he has such among his New York images. Enjoy himself, and James will come on his return, and profit from his California harvest. #6251-g

Dictated. Thinks view from Montmartre will do for "The Velvet Glove. " Glad of his good report of his doings. Keep it up to the bitter end. #6251-g

Kind note, but if she knew how little his going out consorts with his state. Evenings out have been at an end for a long time. May he come to tea with her? #6251-a

Will come Saturday, June 7 at 5:15 for tea with great pleasure. #6251-a

Filled with horror at not writing. Glad to have news of their adventures from Mrs. [Mary] Hunter. Saw her at one of his sittings with [John Singer] Sargent for his portrait. It is almost finished, and he is almost sorry, as studio visits are so delightful. Will be there until July and then back to Rye. Glad to have small home in town. Glad to see Jessie Allen for news of them and to see she has recuperated. Thanks Mrs. Curtis for appreciation of his too fat book. Thrilling that she saw Napoleon borne to Invalides. James doing second installment of the book, and they shall have to talk about it soon. Hopes Ralph Latimer comes with her. #6251-ag

Dictated. Writes regarding the candidates for the election into the Academy, but James must be writing after the election. Should have voted for W. R. Thayer, and even with his information about Cole and Gilbert, James still feels pure helplessness for the candidacy. Vote for any painter, sculptor, architect or musical composer as to whom James definitely commanded, not say "properly instructed," because he doesn't hold that in any summary fashion one can be! P.S. Gives in to temptation to send two enclosed documents [not present] to show how handsomely a member of our body is capable of being treated "over here." It has given him much pleasure. #6251-as

Dictated. He is ill all the time; he has a grave chronic ailment. Cannot make or take off-hand engagements. Handicapped in correspondence, too. Some he never answers at all. #6251-g

Dictated. Cannot come Friday, but Saturday if it suits him. Exempt from impediments. P.S. Will bring old daguerreotype of his uncle, which he said he would be able to photograph. #6251-g

Distress and embarrassment have kept him silent. Forced to speak of certain matters. Anderson had written of plans for "World Centre " and sent first installment of his pamphlet "World conscience. " He appears to have forgotten the impression James tried to give. Does he think James likes to tell him he doesn't and can't go with him, congratulate him, or understand his projects and plans so vast and vague and meaningless to him? He takes so much for granted. Left so short a time ago Roman studio and statues, interesting and limited if a little alarming in scale and number. Can only give James pain to be forced to give criticism on what he can't understand: Anderson's term "world" and his vain and false presumptions seem to James nothing. They would seem so if James were not old and ill and detached, and reduced to ending his life in restricted ways. Loathes such pretensions of "world" anything. Can't sympathize or support Anderson's proposals. Must cultivate his garden morally and intellectually. Anderson must recover the proportions of things; the way he is following "Megalomania " is leading to madness. They can talk if Anderson sees reality, things as they are. #6251-a

Applauds his show at a distance as James is unable to go and come nowadays between Rye and London. Will return to London for winter on December 15. Afraid his exhibition will be over. Isn't Anderson having it in an empty London? May his show greatly prosper. Will see him privately. Hasn't seen "Androcles, " but it will probably run until he can see it. #6251-g

Thanks him for his splendid letter. His letter a great joy because of the vivid images and accounts of the blest little sub-nephew, or indeed super-nephew, and the authentic report of his work. Alice's photographs of the infant are intoxicating. Envious of Peg, who has gone home to see the infant in the flesh, in which she may bury an affectionate nose, what flesh, what proportions, and above all what a beautiful and incomparable head. Keep sending photographs. Peg's departure has been a true and great loss to him. Enjoys that she clearly likes dear old England. Lamb House has never been sweeter, and now it has been a most perfect September he has ever seen. Old Protheros and Fanny are still at Lamb House, though they depart shortly. Wishes he could find a quiet pair of tenants for Lamb House during the seven months he will be in town. If they know of anyone, please pass them along. Discusses Aleck growing up, although wonderstruck at his being able to stand the Thayer madhouse. James lies awake nights thinking of Aleck, and would pay more for a squint of something he has done than for a ticket for the Russian ballet. Asks Bill to treat his picture not as an Experiment, but only and ever as a production and a performance that he needs to be absolutely committed to, and then work out the given wrongness as much as he likes. But to no given wrongness should he ever sacrifice any saving rightness, that time! Treat every time now as the right time, for finish! But on that basis do anything and everything that will help him finish. Sorry about the non-success of the Kitty Emmet portrait. Alice will have a letter all to herself. #6251-aw

Will he conceive of his approaching him as the most abject of worms, most contrite of penitence? If he could see him for an hour all would become plain, and he would wring his heart with his true and inward history. His conditions for a long time have been fatal to initiative, through being so to all confidence in self, though that is coming back. Asks him to come to luncheon by an heroic effort, and he shall bless him to the end of his days. Grateful for generosity of his wife's intercession for James. #6251-a

Great pleasure to have heard from him. When one is in James's state of immobility, time seems to operate at extraordinary speed. F. Phillips's story loses nothing by the admirable hand in which it is written, "if you don't mind my saying so." May you spread far and wide, among your brave Mormons, the example and ideal of that brave fist! There is no detail of your stiff ordeal as a maker of the civilization that you require and devise that I can't imagine. Understands how the ordeals must try his wife, who has plunged into them with such a state of horrible contrast. It is one of the very rules of the game that setting in a huge new crude country can't be liked. The liking comes afterwards when you reap the rewards of patience and courage. Be very sure you will reap that reward. He is an agent for civilization, a builder of a new life. James doesn't want to preach, but just give him a pat on the back and assure him that he thoroughly believes in him and his opportunity. Will send him a whiff of old England at the risk of quickening his homesickness. Talked of Phillips to his very intelligent young friend Dunster who has lately written to him. Understands the pains of homesickness. James will be going to London in three weeks for the winter. Has been a very wet season. Communicates only with the dim Canadian ghost who haunts the spot for James. He finds the point of space Magrath in the only altar he happens to possess, which is twenty years old, however, and where it wasn't to be discovered. James takes it as a good portent that the Mormons flock about him. Thanks him for having found his old novel, a very old one, a relief to the tedium of his journey. Send his blessing to him and his wife. Pull together and you'll pull through! #6251-bb

Appreciates letter that comes to him as a voice out of the very far past. Pleasure to know he reads him. Greatly struck by what he finds in The Golden Bowl . He makes an illuminating critic. Asks him to interpret anomaly of his living in Edinburgh. Hope it brings him peace and plenty. London brings the latter, but too little of the former, until one is almost a centenarian like James. Goes back there for the winter. #6251-s

Thanks her for being kind and faithful to offer him her last novel, and he found it a genial and happy production: very rich, full, and honest. Seems to him she has worked out something in a different way from any she has yet used. Discusses his criticisms of book at length. Tells her to keep it up. Hopes she takes breath and that peace and ease surround her. Don't stay in country too long after he comes to town, which he plans for the 20th. Talks of her children. Returns her interesting old letter of her Uncle Walt, which she loaned him so long ago. What a historic document. #6251-a

Signs of his bustling prosperity give James pleasure. Congratulates him. May the Paris lecture be in every way delightful, though, view of his future city affects him with horror! #6251

Rejoices in his having a lovely time, even if he can't come to London to see him. Has his photo and "Jacob wrestling with the Angel" with him. Envies the commerce of all the charming, demonstrative French people who will give him fine words without end. #6251

Thanks him for Christmas memento, but does find reproduced black barge palls upon him by iteration; he sees so many originals now out his window. However, he much appreciates the sentiment. Thought present was his daguerreotype, but guess he hasn't been able to photograph it. Glad all is well with him, and sends remembrances to his wife and mother. #6251-g

Dictated. Encloses lines from Macmillan, though doubts they will help him in matter of old negatives, especially Lewis Carroll's. Interested in news of daguerreotype. #6251-g

If he goes to studio occupied by Sargent, say he has come to see James's portrait at his request, they will show it. P.S. Take Mrs. Alvin with him! #6251-g

Touched by her remembrances, and he would have answered but all initiative is sapped at the root by an ailment. Reduces his activities, but he is better than a year ago and hopes to be better still. Also the case with Jessie Allen. She is sounder than she was last year and there is much improvement in her voice. Her illness has broken the baleful reign of the Vampires. The dynasty is voted in exile, and the unspeakable Izzie is known no more in the land. She is a neighbor as is Emily Sargent. There has been achieved between Sargent and James one of the very finest of all portraits. It is the rarest perfection, and he is bewildered at having become in this battered phase, the occasion of so immortal a work. Mrs. [Mary] Hunter continues wonderful for riding 30 hours at once, etc. She is a beautiful "organism." P.S. Mrs. [Edith] Wharton's novel is a miracle of cleverness considering how its material has been guessed and chanced rather than really observed by her personally, touched, or experienced. #6251-ag

Will come to tea with pleasure, Saturday, February 7 at 5:00. #6251-a

Thanks him for his honeyed words. The American Scene is a better book than The Bostonians if one may compare like with unlike. Novel has become vague and obscure to him, and doesn't quite catch on to his kind of allusions, though he is touched by his good will. Left it out of Edition because he hadn't the courage to look at it again, and revision would be formidable. Glad dear old though super incumbent new London supplied him with agreeable memories. #6251-s

Congratulates him and his wife for making it through their first Canadian winter; it reflects high credit to them. James thanks him for finding time to write him. Lunched with Dunster who has just been transferred to a new job in the Custom House. But his principal news was the death of his mother. Dunster is indeed intelligent and promising, but seems younger in London than he did at Rye. Interested in what he said of having to retrain for Canadian standards or requirements, so apparent that he is in a fresh and independent world, a more strenuous and on the whole more inspiring and rewarding one. England is comparatively stale and clogged and congested; one hopes that he sticks to it. Hopes he gets his chance at Calgary without too long waiting. Appreciates his fidelity. Phillips gives the sense of feeling justified in his migration. #6251-bb

Thanks him for report on Moscow theatre. His general condition made his thanks delayed. Found in French report something of the craft of a more living esthetic world than they draw any sense of in their flat medium. Long criticism of the theatre and drama and its meaning. #6251-m

His beautiful and generous letter gave pleasure. He has touched virtue in what Henry James tries to do. He makes several old chords vibrate. Mentions all the specific things he likes about play. #6251-m

Dictated. Long detailed explanation of his silence. Experts say his wounds are curable. Discusses discomfort of " ces dames " and the confidence of the country in the kind of character they shall bring to transactions of our affairs. Valuable to us that species of intelligence! Sent note to Anne Ritchie in these terms. Hopes to come to see her Thursday a bit early or a bit late. #6251-a

Invites her to lunch as he longs for her conversation. Felt that she had complications enough. Will not leave London until July 1st, then to Rye to sit motionless until mid-November, so mention any day. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Thanks recognition even though in his conditions of stress and strain and complications. What a devil of a life he is having, and what wonders to pour out when he returns. Memories of Newport, etc. Will rejoice in the sight of him. #6251

Deplores his long silence and general failure. Missed him, but saw his wife as compensation. Should have long ago thanked him for labor over reproduction of his Albany Uncle, but in complications of London he always breaks down and is compelled to ask for help. Now better than at any time during past 3-4 years. Last week has to flee the heat and seek refuge in Rye. Could he send Uncle reproduction? #6251-g

Received fine photograph and gentle letter, and feels under great obligation. Reproduction admirable. Rejoices in his photographic honors and adventures. Doing Masefield book cover covers him with credit. He is at his best as a photographer when he is most desperate. Don't smash anything more vital than his camera. #6251-g

Glad to hear of his happier conditions and prospects. Took liberty of passing it along to Dunster, who has been relegated to winter's work in Scotland. Dunster mentioned that he hasn't heard from Phillips in a very long time. James infers that he must be glad he migrated, but he must say that we see here now as through a glass darkly everything that is not of the huge haunting oppression and obsession of the War. You can't imagine how that enormous fact presses upon us and overhangs us at every moment of consciousness, and how unreal and insignificant and irrelevant everything else appears. If it is to be a "long" war, which probability we absolutely took for granted and frankly faced from the first, there is every appearance that we can hold on and on to a degree never at all apprehended by Germany, who took for granted brevity with extraordinary arrogance to make and keep everything short and sharp. This assumption on her part has been immensely falsified, as most of her assumptions have been. But I can't dilate, beyond saying that the whole spirit and attitude and energy of the country are magnificent. Send us all the blest Canadian volunteers you can; all are of immense importance. Heard from a Canadian soldier that the French Canadians are instructed by their Church, which they so thoroughly obey, which makes up for their great natural blankness and ignorance about the reasons, connections, the very nature and geography, of the war. Rye has done very well: sent off two hundred men. Rye has her complement of the Belgian wounded and of the never to be sufficiently pitied, compensated and avenged Belgian refugees. Has seen little of Dunster, but that his time in Scotland will be grim with the winter coming. Cannot send Phillips illustrated papers because everything we do now is for the War, and the War only. His efforts with the war are exhausting, physically and financially. #6251-bb

Thanks for her most interesting communication about her gallant grandson. She is probably as proud as she is bereft. James thinks of him with an unspeakable pang, as he thinks of her, proportionately gallant for her part. Of his mother James scarcely dares to think. He almost ventures to wish to let her know with what a tenderness of imagination his mind turns to her. Note: Doubtless the young man had been killed at the first battle of Ypres which was fought during the first half of November. #6251-bh

James discusses publication of several early volumes in series; received three of the little volumes. The Lesson of the Master and Daisy Miller are to figure in the first quartet. Already had The Aspern Papers making a third and have not yet had The Turn of the Screw which is to lead off. The Death of the Lion came and will lead off second group of four. Doesn't object to different degrees of corpulence in the volumes. Each composition justifies itself alone in way it at all enjoy when sandwiched between others. For third four, place The Figure in the Carpet first; also include Glasses ; suggests The Beast in the Jungle ; and either The Pupil or The Chaperon as two others for that group. Should be glad to include Julia Bride in the list. Heard from Hugh Walpole on his return to Moscow from the Front. Speaks of going back, but barely escaped grave misadventures due to his highly inoperative eyesight. It handicaps him in every way, and disqualifies him for everything in the nature of Fronts. #6251-a

Obliged for corrections to several passages of his Notes of a Son and Brother . Thanks Professor B. G. Wilder for his trouble. Henry James at a disadvantage as did not have brother's letters to which his narrative refers. G. A. J. is George Abbot Jones, but this is for their and Wilder's ears only. #6251-a

Thanks for his inquiry. He has suffered, as everything in life is at the mercy of horrific public situation. Nothing is as it ever was before. All one's efforts go to living through the long nightmare of this black consciousness. Ill-health and added years keep him exhausted since the war settled on them. Touched he wrote in thick of his own agitation and adventures. Relief to hear of his return to terrace over the Tiber. Spent last summer at Lamb House, but came back to London early, as he can't bear solitude and confinement of the country. Lent Lamb House to the War. Interest in London gets full force of war, and passion of one's sympathy with cause for which the Allies are fighting gives a savor to life in exile. Sympathy and pity and uncertainty have a depleting effect on the apology he has tried to express to him. Trying to get back to work, and hopes Anderson has done so. Hopes he doesn't break down on terrible question of what Italy is going to do. Feeling of confidence is greater as England only now begins to feel armed and equipped and ready, same of France, and probably in some weeks for Russia. Assurance of Allies can only be still in a long war. This is very horrible, not horrible that he is fondly faithful to him. #6251

Hard to have to tell him he is unable, under stress and anxiety over many things, to send him a photograph of [John Singer] Sargent's portrait of him. Supply is exhausted and he has no way of putting his hands on one. If he has patience, say, until the war is ended, whenever that incredible time may be, he will try. #6251-a

Touched by kindness of her note. Makes him glad of recurrence of anniversary which has little to recommend it. Has comfort in feeling in her house and its atmosphere of friendships and sympathy. Thanks the Ambassador, too, for the confidence they let him cultivate there. #6251-bk

Glad [John Singer] Sargent was able to obtain a photograph of his admirable work, which he connected with only to the extend of his signature, so James can admire it in all extravagance. The photograph in question is finer than the one going to friends. #6251-a

With greatest pleasure on June 30- he has no niece with him, but he shall be able to bring an interesting American "lady friend." #6251-m

Touched by her friendly remembrance and assurance in expressing them to him. What he did was simply and entirely inevitable- couldn't think in terms of living under this great public trouble, and not want to make his doing so absolutely right. #6251-i

Thanks him for new set of volumes, but hasn't any very good news for him. Has been unwell a long time. Doctor pronounces him better, but has complications so that he can't come to see him; continue to expect him, as getting out is desirable. Finds new volumes charming. Rejoices in news of Hugh Walpole's forthcoming book. Hopes he will appear at his convenience. #6251-a

Will give James great pleasure to lunch with him tomorrow at the Junior Carlton Club. #6251-bd

Will be dining with three young American cousins. Hopes he can miraculously come the distance to look it. #6251-bd

Pas de chance. Unfortunately is engaged and cannot join him. Fighting a fierce battle against dining out. But you must come and talk about the wonderful months that he must have had in Paris. #6251-bd

Just found his letter. Can join him but only for a short time as he has another engagement. Could come earlier if that is not too early for him and his mysterious friend. #6251-bd

Just returned from Newport. Finds and accepts invitation to dine Monday at 6. "Tanti complimento. "#6251-a

Never received his note of acceptance of his article on [Charles Augustin] Sainte-Beuve. Sent two articles at Rice's invitation, and he doubted they could be used. If so, James would like them back. Now Barron writes he may be able to use them during the next few months. Still asks for paper back, as wishes to withdraw it from North Atlantic Review as he refused the honor to contribute. #6251-m

Committed himself on next Tuesday- asked lady to dine with him, and go to a "Bauble Shop" and she has accepted. #6251-a

Apologizes. Misplaced invitation, and forgot date. Will she forgive him, after his making a clean breast of it all? #6251-a

Happy to lunch with him on Sunday. #6251-a

Does he want to be ministering angelo come to see victim of wild pestilence? Had "it" very mildly. Languish for human speech. Sorry he can't say dine, but he doesn't feast and his cook is ill. Come in the afternoon. #6251-a

Suddenly seized with horror at the realization of the awful in inconvenience James put both her and her father in, but he has been ill for several days. Constant and intolerable pain and thus broke off every engagement. Faced with an accumulation of letters that almost put him back down in bed again with horror. Must throw himself on her charity and her father's. P.S. Definitely better, so please don't trouble yourself to pity him. #6251-bm

He will come and they must talk Clayton over, and the British drama. #6251-a

Thanks him for French journals, redolent of Denise . Thinks it safe for British adaptation. It is only another sign of gulf that separates these two people. Last theatrical event in London was the complete fiasco of Mrs. Langtry in version of Père Goriot [Balzac] which apart from complete rigidity of the actress is pronounced deadly dull and deadly dirty by the London press and public, while same play was so stimulating in Paris! Last news there is the great dynamite affair, most dreadful, any attempts done under nose of London police, unable to put a hand on anyone. Papers blame Americans for not catching the villain. Much anxiety in General Stewart's army. Is he still in touch with "the little thing" [Daudet]? Always interested in him. Written a few lines to Huntington. #6251-c

Thanks for his letters and endorsements of Goncourt. Agrees, but there is still something disagreeable in Goncourt, something of vanity, but he writes exquisitely. Why will Goncourt make them wait 20 years for more? In his place, with his opportunities, he would poison Goncourt tomorrow. Talks about Daudet, and adoring his words. Divided feelings regarding Paris, but has worked into quiet waters, and finds life possible in London. Ideal would be five months in London, five months in Italy, and one in Paris. He has settled down in this Indian village: the dark back bedroom, the dim front sitting room. It is hideously political. He is lonely and speechless; everything is stuffy, literal, unspeakably Philistine. Went to see [Salonici] and he is the greatest of the great. Stick to his bright little Parisian, and the civilization of the Gauls. Yours cynically. #6251-c

His card entertained him and greatly obliged to him and the childlike and birdlike Alphonse [Daudet]. James's health is better than ever. Wishes he had told him more about his interview with Daudet. Appetite for Daudet's words is inexhaustible. Editor of Century asked him to write Daudet to accelerate production of his essays, but he declined, charmed as he is to translate him when he arrives. #6251-c

Thanks for photographs; portrait fine and interesting. Brings back dear man in his most pleasing. How strange that a good portrait revises and recreates what is buried and finished. Shall hang it in some familiar corner. Thinks of Paris, which has been near in person of Dr. Henry [Cazalis?], etc. Wishes he would come and throw a light on Paris situation, though his comparisons of Paris and London in the fall plunged him into deep gloom. The American picture books pay far better, but they are such a damnable unliterary medium. Discusses dreariness of working with Alden, who has literary ideal of Buffalo, New York, and [Frank] Harris, who obtained dialogue with [Paul] Bourget on science and poetry, which is in French in the April Fortnightly , a coup. [John Singer] Sargent sent from America two big female portraits to the Academy, one a noble picture of Mrs. Marquand. Finds Maurice Barrès sick with affectation, and can't read his dreary little book. #6251-c

Thanks for glowing picture of Parisian listener. Glad he has seen Huntington. He is the kindest and worthiest of mortals but his is quite a hermit. Glad he got work on Telegraph. Public carping about [Turgenev] in Atlantic was not his. He is a great admirer. Wishes he were in Paris, but likes London and leads a work-filled life there. Should find no Atheneum Club in Paris. Friend in New York wrote he could not get Turgenev a publisher there, and not to do a translation. #6251-c

All about confusion in dining out with him. Out every night, but he must at least have breakfast with him. #6251-c

Glad to have his news regarding his tiring of Paris. Read his paper on Villon, and thought it very pretty. Also received theatre tickets at his behest. In London, but on point of embarking for the Normandy coast to spend the rest of the summer laboriously and frugally, but detained at the last moment. Will stay and go to Italy for three months in September. Will see him in Paris if he is still there. Once a Parisian always a Parisian. Paris must be interesting now, between the elections and the trial of Mademoiselle Gras. Was there ever such an incarnate friend as this lady? Newspapers palpitating as filled with accounts of terrible railway war in the United States. These are not the times for an optimist. Must try to get some of Huntington's cheerful disposition. Writes about what James is reading and give his recommendations. #6251-c

Sorry he missed him. Tells his schedule. Went abroad December 1. First months in Florence. From July 1 in Venice and was ill there. Sorry Child feels less and less at home in London, that is what he has come to in Paris. When James leaves London, he wants more of a change than the second biggest city. If he comes in October, let him know as he is hungry for Child's news. #6251-c

His letter was a stimulating though depressing whiff of Paris. Grieved at his account of dear old Huntington. Forward him the enclosed words of sympathy. Child mentioned absence of artistic slang in their Philistine tongue and agrees there are certain things the Anglo-Saxon mind never tries to say. French have run too much to clichs of that sort. His account of Goncourt's "court" is appalling. Is Mademoiselle Daudet susceptible? What does he say of Mademoiselle [Hugues?]? The demoralization of their country hums to our appetite. Escape before the doom of Gomorrah descends on it to this virtuous clime, where the Dean of Hereford was arrested yesterday for indecent behavior with a young man in Hyde Park. #6251-c

Sorry to miss seeing him and Huntington in Paris. He forgets London has after all "du bon." He is glad to find himself back at a British fireside. He had spent six weeks in France in the provinces before visiting Paris. Looked up M. Rabussen on Riviera and found him "dirty sans his moindre talent." What the devil is coming over Frenchman to have lost perception of anything in nature but the genital organs? He will probably think these structures of the most fiendish hypocrisy. Thanks for account of Daudet's new novel which sounds very curious and interesting. Awaits it with interest. Tell him an American, not without talent, adores him, and spent a day at Tarascon solely for the love of him and his Aventures prodigieuses de Tartarin de Tarascon . Has read 3-4 of Renan's papers, and anxious for book; he is a queer mixture. He has an enchanting mind, but it needs ventilation. Would like to see Child's books, as he doesn't collect. #6251-c

Impossible to dine with him, but come to breakfast at Café Riche. #6251-c

Regrets not seeing him, but understands his anxieties, problems, etc. As fond of London as ever. Tells of [John] Hay and King, whose touch of madness was unexpected; he was a fascinator. [Henry] Adams seems to be unemployed. James has been reading Sir Walter [Scott]'s letters: what a dear was that sweet, great man. Caledonia was justified if she had begotten none else. If in England this summer will visit him. His "unfitness to visit is a positive malady." #6251-n

Thanks for letter and Lady Clark's coverlet. Busy with literary job. [John] Hay mountain of book [ Abraham Lincoln: A History ] before him: a big achievement of vast democratic American life and an epic biography. What a tragic history of that miserable country. How glad he is he loathes politics and journalism; they justify loathing from hour to hour. #6251-n

Still hoping that they can dine together at the Reform Club. Longs to see him. #6251-bl

It is magnificent, and so is she for bringing it. Sorry to have missed her visit by one quarter of an hour. Hopes she found some hospitality somewhere. #6251-m

Will give him great pleasure to dine with her February 7 at 8. #6251-a

Engaged to dine with Arthur Russells Monday. Has irreparable loss, but he is coming to see her one of these very next days. #6251-a

Saw [John Singer] Sargent at last; shall not see him for three weeks, but he will send sketches for his exhibition. He has no finished thing available. Will try to get best thing he can lend. #6251-m

Gives him great pleasure to dine with him in Mr. Smalley's honor. At any occasion in which there may be an explosion of speeches, his terror becomes acute, unless he is sure nothing is expected of him but to remain dumb. Anything else makes him seek refuge of instant flight. #6251-m

With pleasure he will lunch with her Saturday. Shall not see Canon Stubbs in her company as will divert him from James. She will think of him as unduly cynical. He had for James the entertainment of a pretty dance, charming his eye and ear. Sends her an American magazine, a record of a few personal impressions of Turgenoff [Turgenev], which if she cared about him will perhaps revive the spark. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

It's a fury! He is engaged to dine Friday, but he shall soon see her at a natural hour. He is less and less interested in dining [out] at his old age. He is breaking his eggs and cannot make omelets. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Too busy to answer her note. Rain ruins the language as well as ruining other things. Tells her why he couldn't visit her. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Finds her note on return from visit in country, and starts tomorrow on another week away, and then back and settled indefinitely. Then he shall move quickly to see her. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Appreciates the sentiment of her note and rejoices that his long-winded work left her with enough patience to write him. When one has finished such a book, he speaks of its dimensions; one feels that he has shuffled off a mortal evil, but should have liked to get back into the skin of the muse long enough to listen to the conversations at the A. Russells. P.S. Went to first hours of a Religion in Russell Square on the theory she would be one of those at hand. Fears it augers ill for the future of the Faith, that though the consolations of Religion are supposed to be great, those there offered failed under the disappointment of her absence. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Touched by her kind letter in light of the visible inconvenience it must be to handle a pen. Never dreamed of her burdening herself with the effort to express herself regarding his play, about which he had no illusions, and understands the restrictions, not to say the deadly silence which is what all his friends have practiced. Tells why he wrote play. Did not tend itself to a comedy of manners. Play contains some damagingly poor acting. If she sees anything of his again she will see a different sort of thing. Thanks her for benevolence and sympathy. Sorry her retreat appears a place to retreat from rather than to. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Shall bury in oblivion her allusions to Mr. Freeman, which seemed as discreet as they were temperate. Shall take the liberty of sending her a little book of superficialities of his. Sending it because it's of this quality to rest her after all her thoroughness. But don't thank him as that will still be too thorough. #6251-a

Cannot accept her invitation for he has fled from town and its fatal excess of opportunity, and remains in the country for the present. Wishes he might have seen her. Eager for the next good occasion. In bound volume filed at 1888 January 28. #6251-a

Delighted to appear Friday. How he is able to see her. Is finishing some work. Explanation will take almost whole of hour or two she mentions. It will be interesting to Mr. Scherer. #6251-a

As soon as Reform has reopened, will take his affairs in hand. Will send him a catalogue of actual members so he may note whom he knows. Glad to facilitate London for him, though monetary is terribly unknowable to his utterly demonetized Henry James. P.S. Glad he could propose him as a Special Commissioner of Department of State, etc. Is his objection insurmountable? One mustn't be even comparatively humble. #6251-y

Didn't answer his circular for several days as he had oral work done on his tongue which he had expected the stately hall of Reform reverberate with from one day to the other. Looked for him there; some day will seek him at the dinner hour. Is he in the country enough to begin at the Atheneum? #6251-a

Glad to hear his little girl came happily into the world, and congratulates Mrs. Hawthorne. He has so many engagements he cannot get to Hastings this month. Will come as soon as possible. Thanks for information on improper people having a manuscript of his father's; he wants to be sure of their sins before approaching them. Glad his book amuses him; despairs of ever shocking him, but he would if he could!

Thanks him for ticket, and will look in after the concert. #6251-a

Engaged tomorrow to Lowell who must dine with some American ladies. Full of regret. Hopes to catch her before she leaves town. #6251-a

There is a small doubt of his being in town the 11th, but shall come in not later than April 15. Thank her husband for ticket which he hopes to use. #6251-a

With much pleasure will come tomorrow for dinner. Doesn't mention hour; takes for granted 8 p.m. #6251-a

Shall be delighted to dine with them on Sunday, and thanks them for concert ticket. #6251-a

Accepts her invitation for 5th with great pleasure. It will be a great experience for him to listen to her "Stabat Mater. "#6251-a

Received four volumes of George Eliot, and sorry he didn't take copy of [William Makepeace] Thackeray's Paris Sketch Book he has. He will take it if they send it to him. Send bill. #6251-a

Delighted to hear that his novel announces itself as Epoch making. Sorry he cannot leave there. Later on do ask again. #6251-o

Left town many days ago. Rye and the country are of an adorable freshness, and London seems already infinitely far off and incredible. Invitations from town, when one is not there, affect one as a dim echo of sound and fury. If she can come to him in July, he should be delighted. #6251-o

Sorry for another note. Called on Miss Stringer and found they were at cross purposes. She and his housekeeper would have been unthinkable together. #6251-o

Thursday to tea at Sackville Street and 4:30 will suit him. They will discuss a coeur joie ; their common nature, trick art, and everything else. #6251-o

Didn't know she was restored to London. Will come to Sackville Street on first day she names. #6251-o

The last two days in Paris were such a fiendish scramble that he had no time to answer his letter. He had no chance to knock on his door as he was living in a whirlwind of engagements. It was insufferable to miss seeing him. Not without hope of spending a few days in Paris later in the winter. He wants to see Le Roe d'amuse and Foedora . Thinks it will amuse the public. Wishes to see old friend [Theodore] Child if he is still in Paris. Finds London several inches under water. Two London topics appearing in Review last Saturday inflated the British breast and the damning of Tennyson's new play. Sends regrets for the past and hopes for the future. #6251-c

To his sorrow, he is engaged to dine February 4, with old Lady Stanley. Otherwise, would have been happy to accept her invitation. #6251-a

Her offer most kind and gratified by her thoughts of him, but grieves to say it finds him engaged. Has agreed to do two things incompatible with each other. Must fight with his complications, and shall soon come to explain it. #6251-a

Thanks for letter with its information. Trusts Katherine returns soon. Hopes to hear from Alice at the same moment. Recommends places to stay and activities available in London. Sends regards to her father. #6251-a

Shall be delighted Monday at 8; so happy he is free. Sorry about Fred; hopes he is painless and doing well. #6251-a

Will with pleasure present himself not later than 2:50. #6251-m

Laid up with bad attack of the gout, unable to put on a shoe or go into the world. He may be obliged to make a vigorous dash abroad, which he has delayed. Sends good wishes for her journey to Rome. She must tell him all about it. #6251-a

May 24 will suit him for the Tivoli, and he will place himself wholly at her command. #6251-a

Thanks for her invitation and will be delighted to renew his relations with the ghost of Guy Fawkes, but not certain of date of his return to town. Hopes she has had happy adventures since he last saw her, and shall be glad to hear about them. #6251-a

Ashamed to ask her to postpone his visit to next week. Has unexpectedly been forced to go into the country. Regrets the delay. #6251-a

Hoped to come to tea Saturday, but hindrance arose and must postpone her hospitality until next week. If she agrees, he will see her the 10th. #6251-a

It is the fault of the post that he has brought her note and impression of her wonderful old tower. He wrote he would turn up, and he did so, but his note had not reached her, and she was absent. His supposed silence must have made her think his manner strange. Shall return the 17th. #6251-a

Her note finds him in the act of going abroad. Getting off for a longish absence. Sends regrets to Mrs. Hanbury that he cannot accept her invitation. She has his consideration for the structure that destroys her esthetic existence. #6251-a

Obliged for her invitation, but has promised to go to evening given by his publishers, Macmillans. A promise to his publisher might not be rigidly valid, so if he doesn't go to Macmillans he will go with pleasure to Richmond Terrace. #6251-p

Found her letter on his return from Paris. Sorry to have missed her in London. Costs him to say that there will be no going out of town for him at Easter this year. He must stick fast to a lot of work he has undertaken. Doesn't despair of visiting her soon. #6251-r

Thanks for her note. Will let her know more about project after a meeting with a few of Hill's friends tomorrow. Saw Mrs. Hill yesterday, and she was serene and cheerful as usual. Thanks for her sympathy with his idea. #6251-r

Shall come to Rabelais dinner and suggests he give him a seat next to W.H.P. [Walter Hines Page?]. #6251-aj

There is misbegotten article of 2,000 words; hopes it will pass muster. It was very difficult, and he didn't want to do it. Worked away from easy journalistic form. Proof will receive his instant attention. P.S. He goes in for inscrutable anonymity! #6251-m

Spent 2-3 days looking for article on Browning, but cannot locate it. Doesn't think she would have found it useful; it was clumsy and uninspired. Has seen Leslie and Stephen. Fears he is weakened by his illness. Glad she is in good form. Wishes she didn't live so far away. He lunches out only on Sunday, when he can start out early, so dear is morning to him. #6251-y

Appreciates letter. Is in situation of helplessness in which smallest assistance is thankfully received. Notes names of roses he gives him. Is not going in for "roses," etc. His aspirations are humble. His garden needs "making." His dream is a small and old-fashioned formal garden. If he had a caring friend, he would put the case into his hands and leave him free. Obliged for his sympathy and other contributions. #6251-a

Thanks, with delight. Will come Tuesday and embrace her mother, after that she may be the affectionate one. #6251-m

Has made plans to leave town for a few weeks so is deprived of the pleasure of dining with her. #6251-a

Sends rest of letters back, with sense of their beauty and interest being confirmed. They are a mine of charming and touching characteristic things, doing honor to everyone concerned. They will contribute immensely to the illumination of his name. He is homesick before going and feels his return would be early. #6251-a

The 4:55 from Victoria tomorrow will be the most feasible train. #6251-a

Her proposals are delightful, but they find him helpless and unable to leave town. P.S. Doesn't deserve that she still kindly reads him. #6251-a

Impossible to avail self of her kind invitation. Will pounce on her in town if she ever comes back. Regrets his hatred of his impediment. #6251-m

Thought it discreet not to follow up her offer to bind him a little book, but he ventures to send her one: a small volume of Anatole France, which is a masterpiece and on which her graceful art will not be wasted. He shall value the result of her handiwork, but take it very easily, and operate all at her leisure. Has charming memory of their Sunday together. #6251-v

Encloses prescription if she will kindly let him have it again. Its name appears to be peperazine, and its nature magical. Revealed to his Dr. four months ago by Sir Andrew Clark. Available at best chemists; he couldn't get it in Paris. It is expensive but it works fast. May it renew her youth! #6251-a

Sorry but error is wholly his. Wrote memo for wrong date. Let him come some other near day. #6251-a

Will give him much pleasure to come to her garden fête . Waited because he thought he would have to go to town, but glad the menace lifted. #6251-a

Will give him great pleasure to dine tomorrow. Excuse him for not dressing as he didn't bring to Rye the wherewithal. #6251-a

Forgive him for keeping her little book so long, but it got thrust out of sight by mistake. He never puts anything but his small signature to which she is welcome. #6251-a

Will give his friend Jonathan Sturgis and him great pleasure to dine with her tomorrow at 7:30 p.m. #6251-a

Grieves to say he will not be well enough to dine with her Friday. He has had a sorry and stricken time, with a baffled recuperation, and social intercourse this week is out of the question. In 2-3 days he will go to Torquay for a fortnight. Otherwise, he shall simply bolt home. #6251-a

Sorry he is nailed for Friday. Sends thanks and regrets. Shall see her before he goes. #6251-a

His notes on Chicago Fair kindled his imagination and revived his memory of his too short and too distant visit. Pages in Harvard Magazine are delightful. Doesn't regret not having been one of the gazers and gapers; he is too fond of reflected light. Always more interested in effects produced than in producing force. #6251-a

Sorry to hear of her brothers' troubles. Louise will be happy to have The Galaxy papers and add a Trollope title to her shelf of that unabashed teller of good yarns. Japanese news. Sure LeRoy Phillips glad to have the eight uncollected; he is a very grateful person. [Thomas Sergeant] Perry biography has had no reviews. He does not want to review it, but the James letters was like boring through solid granite. Not a Perry fan, and thinks all of his portraits confirm a stolidity. However, do send the letters as he could be so wrong. Gives a detailed account of the James letters and despairs over a twenty year lapse from 1886 to 1906. #6251-m

Regarding symposium for Henry James's Century . Would like to know if he would participate. #6251-bi

Scott Tunstall is the right one for Hugh Walpole. He was fascinated by Scott all his life. Thought himself the modern Sir Walter. He did finally get the Sir! #6251-m

Wonderful review she did in the Kenyon . Hers is the only review that has seen the point of the "story of the story." That she did doesn't surprise him. Small minds will say that they are friends, but they are not concerned with small minds. Still, there can be no question of her "disinterestedness." He prizes her review the most, and since they are friends, he feels her reviews are even more objective and exacting. Hopes to tell her face to face how deeply he appreciates her work. Passes along news of Donald's illness. #6251-m

Belated thanks her kind letter on receiving the book. Reviews have been good. Good for the Henry James reputation in tearing away a lot of cobwebs. Princeton a wonderful experience. Will get in touch with her at the end of the month. Worried about Donald. #6251-m

Students engulfed him after the fall reunion. Promises that he will get into touch with her in the new year and make a date for another long talk. Off to Chicago to attend a gathering of pundits. #6251-m

"From his affectionate friends." #6251-an

Regarding In the Cage . Thinks it one of the most wonderful pieces James did. Has read it over and over. The way he worked it out is marvelous. The scene of Captain Everard and the girl on the beach one of the most delicate pieces in literature. #6251-u

The long delayed publication of Henry James At Home takes place tomorrow, appearing in the United States in the fall. Decided not to use his portrait of James as a frontispiece. Good reproduction proves difficult. Using original Sargent drawing. Has not forgotten to present the manuscript to the University of Virginia. Will hold on to it until publication in America. Wonders if the Grolier Club would like him to talk about the book. His cousin recently died of a sudden heart attack, and will dedicate his book to him and his wife, Holly. #6251-aw

Thanks for his letter. Happy that he can participate in the Grolier Club function. No one can introduce him better than Barrett could. Very grateful. Wonders if he should come to Charlottesville for a night so he could hand over his manuscript. Otherwise will give it to him in New York. Looks forward to hearing from him. #6251-ab

Giving information about Mrs. Francis Ford who has been traced by Mr. Percy Lubbock. #6251-m

Would like letters of Mr. Percy Lubbock about Mrs. Francis Ford returned. #6251-m

Sends an Easter box. Looks forward to meeting. #6251-m

Was pleasant satisfaction to meet. Have been absorbed by Leon [Edel]'s life of Uncle Henry. Admires it and is fascinated by it and cannot wait until next volume. #6251-m

Encloses a clean copy of the Preface [not present], which completes the manuscript. Burden now shifted to his shoulders. Wishes him luck. #6251-m

Gave no one the right to say that he either in theory or practice regards their present social bonds as vicious simply because they are imperfect. Time will come when a perfect society or fellowship will prevail among men. But it would be absurd to say that coercion was out of place in the present even with his beliefs about the future. This would be bad logic and worse legislation. Gives analogies to their situation. The future is to be secured only on the condition of a rigid fidelity to the law of its present. Wants him to send a formal note for the Tribune requesting him to define his position. He will rejoice in the opportunity. P.S. Wife sends her love to him. #6251-a

Wrote a readable article about Barrett's book on the Lacedaemonians, ventilating his ancient animosity in a pleasant way. Could he publish it? Can use his name if he likes. P.S. Please tell Greeley or Mr. Gay that they will find in the 7th book of the Peloponnesian War of Thucydides, 27th chapter, an instance of the liberation of slaves of an enemy, operated by the Spartans against the Athenians. #6251-ap

Attached to group of documents entitled "Curiosities of Literature, " which provides a brief description of the items included in attachment: "To me, these letters seem but the senile sentimentality which Age often displays toward feminine youth." Attached are two clippings, "Spiritualism New and Old " and "the Death Penalty- A Substitute for the Gallows, " by Henry James and an anonymous letter, n.d. Henry James to Hattie E. Hathaway: "You give me your address but do not know if you call me friend or whether you are an old correspondent. What is the trouble you are suffering from? You naturally excite my desire to know what diseases I can relieve." Sends her some articles [included]. Tell him when she receives articles, the circumstances under which she expects it to be applicable, and whether she still continues of that mind. * Anonymous letter [from Hattie E. Hathaway?]: Thanks for the articles, which have satisfied certain longings, but exacted others which she fears will be long in the satisfying. Moreover, it is quite certain she is not his "old correspondent," for she never wrote him until last week, and she is just as ignorant of the other member of the Hathaway family that he mentioned. #6251-bc

Four attached letters, dated February 25, February 28, March 4, March 17 to Hattie E. Hathaway. * February 25, ca. 1874: Yesterday was pregnant with snow and tempest, but today is bright and peaceful enough to counterfeit heaven to one's sensuous regard. Contrasts his "inward meteorological change" with the changes in the weather. Continues with a metaphor of a ship in a river-bed when the tide is out. And he, like the ship when the tide comes in, upon a wave of womanly influence into his heart and mind, leaves him no voice but worship. Never was a letter more surcharged with the effluence of womanhood. Accepts an invitation to meet a company of ladies and gentlemen this evening. Gives his thanks to invitation. Yesterday she was an ordinary person; today she is holy and stainless to his imagination. Blesses her for being what God has made of her, your faithful friend forever henceforth. * February 28, ca. 1874: Sends reply to her letter. Feels devout joy and responds to the new force of womanhood. It is not the literal woman, but the invisible woman, the aromatic, unconscious person who appeals to the spiritual senses primarily. She sends exquisite grace, and was kissing in imagination the sweet white feet of her innocence, and looking up with devotion to the blue over-arching heaven of her womanly eyes and face. Gives her advice about the people who feel prejudice about her. Discusses at length his philosophy of Society. It is their divine destiny to know this philosophy. * March 4, ca. 1874: Profusely thanks her for her most recent letter. Discusses the "New Marriage Sentiment" in her bosom, which is so fast coming to renew the earth, and take up the despised and degraded and crucified form of sexual love into its renovating arms. He feels her profound marriage-life throbbing in her letters, and yearns to give it consciousness. Tells her of the ritual, which is nothing apart from itself, which he is sure she would be eager to acknowledge. He could prompt its development in her, which he does with all his heart, and she will be born into the truth. Of course being born again or renewed is somewhat painful to fleshly prejudice, but if he holds her in his arms every moment and ministers to her with infinite love, won't it be at least tolerable to her? Write back quickly! * March 17, ca. 1874: Replying to her letter. Sorry he was obscure, but took for granted a gentle familiarity on her part with his ideas about marriage. Will tell fully what he means about the "New Marriage Sentiment" in regards to his marriage. His wife is the greatest blessing of his life, and he is indebted to her. But he and his wife have been tempted against the contractual bond of marriage, and it is a great pity that a greater freedom of divorce not be allowed. Discusses his views on divorce. As for Marriage, in the carnal type of marriage the man represents the universal element in existence, the material element, the gross realistic element; the woman represents the individual element, the spiritual element, and the subtle personal element. Discusses the nature of "free-lovers." Then discusses "thoughtful persons" role in marriage, that they are above the societal restrictions upon marriage, and can combine in a unity that is a friendship as much above love or conjugality as heaven is above earth. Two people can make together the perfect image of the grand society which is coming, which is the universal marriage of all men with all women, and this is the holy verse of spirit. This is his profound conviction. Your postscript says "don't disappoint me," and that urgency is so extremely sweet that he can barely write. #6251-bc

Four attached letters, dated October 18, November 1, May 9, March 28, to Hattie E. Hathaway. * October 18 [1874?]: Your letter is so fragrant with inspiration that he could not help answering it on the spot, since it is so full of the "new wine" of the kingdom. Curious how one manages to realize these sacred experiences amidst the din of trivialities. Here she is, a person unknown to him by sense, and probably always to be so, though that is not a grateful suggestion to his imagination. It is an ineffable horror to him if the worship he addressed to Him profaned the lower uses, or appropriated by an undevout heart. But she shouldn't worry. Her letters have a certain womanly charm: a charm of perfect grace and freedom. She has associated him with the intimate wants of her life. When she said in her last letter that "though you have yearned for the experimental knowledge of the love flight" that for a long time had scarcely a conscious longing which his blissful secret did not take to its heart. Keep the enclosed letter in your private keeping and keep all his letters shut out from all knowledge but her own, for they are full of a love inspired by Himself and owing nothing in common with the base of the world. * November 1: Fell to influenza that prevented him from writing, but will two points from her last letter. 1. Don't try to think of God incessantly. The divine humanity has always been revealed to man in what is called the church. The church is a purely symbolic institution. Discusses the churches early use of symbols through animals. But the symbols lost their significance, and the church became valued for its own sake. A new revelation of God's perfection consequently took place in Jesus Christ, whose death and resurrection was in essence spiritual. But there is a new change in the church, destitute of all ritual features. Human society is Gods new truth, the society fellowship or equality of all men with each, and of each with all. Thus, don't think of God, for He is all about her, in her bosom above all. 2. She mentions that he would be disappointed if they met. But when the meet he has nothing to do with her in the outward world, but only recognizes her inwardly. But since she is the woman and he is the man he would render her infinite worship. Very anxious to hear from her. * November 9: Still sick, but answers her sweet invitation. Will meet her tomorrow at 3 P.M. and be sure to receive him as he will be very disappointed. Will need to be off by 1. * November 28: What a pleasant sight is her clear, shapely, feminine handwriting. Hoped she would come back once the clouds and darkness bred of illness had lifted. Rejoices in her exquisite and intimate friendship. Wonders if she reads the papers, since he is involved with a controversy with the Editors of the Index , which would be of interest to them. Will send her all his letters but meanwhile tell him whether or not he should do so. Her letters are full of so much womanly grace and sweetness, and so subtle an aroma of womanly charm that he covets them. How sweet it would be to kiss her womanly feet, or find an altar of Divine worship in those gentle feminine hands which have ministered to him so many priestly benedictions. #6251-bc

Attached to ALS, December 24 [1875?], Henry James, Sr. to Hattie E. Hathaway, 4 pp. on 1 l. * December 24: Tired of waiting for her last response to his last letter of months and months ago. Are you tired of the correspondence? What is the reason you don't write? Reluctant to believe that she is definitively retired from their correspondence. It may be that you are dead and gone to dwell among less noisy people than the Brooklynites, but have recently discovered quite unexpectedly your address, and am going to ascertain if you are not, as I hope, in the land of the living still. * January 1, 1876: Happy New Year. She expresses a great ennui , but the expression is too vague to allow him the expectation of meeting it. But she is suffering from spiritual celibacy, or a sense of almost utter disjunction between their private selfhood and that of the race. The public self and the private self are perfectly one in God, but are declared enemies. His communion with his wife and child being days and hours of uninterrupted peace and harmony. Any chance acquaintance he makes with strangers in horse cars or elsewhere is filled with a Divine aroma that fills him with adoration. Anything that helps his celebrate the Divine unity is his constant want and aspiration. She too is of a true human quality, and would gladly be lifted out of her petty, personal dimension. That is what makes him love her, his sweet H.E.H., and count upon her lasting love, upon a tie of friendship which ennobles all their intercourse. #6251-bc

What he prizes in her is her fragrant womanhood, or that ineffable aroma of divinity which men are covetous to expect in their own nature. Men feel the horrible burden of selfhood, feel how it has corrupted them and laid waste to their life, and want nothing more than to be washed of them. Woman is the symbol and the pledge of this Divine natural renovation. To give up his belief in woman would be to give up his belief in God. He is always inwardly thirsty for this spiritual refreshment. Has no means of knowing whether she is handsome or plain, learned or simple, gentle or spirited. He knows multitudes of women in both kinds, and scarcely find "Woman" among them. It is not what one sees in any woman, but what one feels. Women have a wholly Divine or unconscious influence exerted upon men, which makes men believe in a world of human possibilities yet to come, of which innocence and peace will be the stuff. He longs to be reformed, and wishes to exchange the scent of his coarse earth for the fragrance of her regenerate heaven. Women as a general thing are so untaught in the Divine Life. One shrinks with horror for being mistaken, and having his highest religious emotions turned into mere ecstasy of sense. Love craves always a finite fulfillment or satisfaction, a sensible consummation. It is marriage and not Love which annuls all want. I have had a glimpse of this heavenly rest in dreams (or rather visions). We can realize God's life in our nature. Her letters make him want to feel how sweet it would be to kiss her heavenly feet, and bow to her virgin motherhood. Finds her a temple radiant with a Divine human substance. She has read all his sacred things, and hopes she does not profane it, but return the letter if she does not like it or guard it from all other eyes if she keeps it. #6251-bc

Two letters attached with a title page, "Senile Sentimentality: Two letters from Henry James, Sen. to a lady he had seen but once or twice." * [ca. 1878]: It would be nothing short of Divine to see her in her house. But no such Divine moments are allowed in the uncivilized life of theirs. But thanks her for the imaginary possibility. It has filled his bosom with a flush of heavenly glory, to hear of such sacred possibilities from her womanly lips. If not for the tyranny of space and time he would be with her. If she wrote a fortnight ago, he would have found time. Perhaps in three weeks. Begs her to tell him of her illness. She afflicts him with her mysteries. He is sick for her house. How long must he think of it as adorned with that free, womanly, radiance? His heart aches to know her heart. * [ca. 1878]: She gives him a glimpse of heavenly rest. But she breaks his heart when she told him not to write him anymore. His heart is fresh-quickened with life. Her letters exerts the imagination in notable measure. An indescribable aroma of womanhood breathes from all her letters, and fills one with worship. How can he cease to write? Doesn't want to offend her womanly instincts. Who can one go to to find his inward or spontaneous instincts authenticated but woman? It is so divinely sweet to feel the intense charm or her letters and be purged of all defiling thoughts? Prays her not to ravish the cup from his lips unnecessarily, but let him drink his fill. It is a cup where he shall never discover any dregs, and he knows this. Rain upon him, and she will always find a grateful soil. Isn't it a delight that she is a woman, and feel her power to lift men? #6251-bc

Four attached letters, dated March 29, April 19, May 2, May 18, to Hattie E. Hathaway. * March 29 [ca.1879]: Her letter gives her inspiration. After he sent his letter, he reflected, and felt that he would rather die than expose her to possible danger and pain. The way she expressed the risks and susceptibilities was so exquisitely frank and sweet that his heart was ravished anew. He laid awake half the night with unaffected loathing once he thought about what she said. He wants to repair the cruel wrong. He has been thoughtless of her dear needs. He never dreams of any intimacy with her but the intimacy of the worship of the altar. The sentiment which burns in his soul towards her sex is so essentially chaste. He will make himself more worthy of her. * April 19 [ca. 1879]: James won't let her take back what she said, of knowing beforehand the ground of his devotion. She must have known it before he laid his heart bare to her as he did in its inmost privacies. She must tell him that she will take the unworthy imputation of her womanhood back, or he shall feel wounded. He would gladly go down to New York if he did not have to give lectures in Boston. But the week after next he will be able to see her. Asks if that suits her, for he will go any time that suits her. Discusses at length the differences between men and women. Animals, with their appetite and passion, have no rational control. Men, however, the intellect is not controlled by the heart. But woman, as she knows from the myth of Genesis, is formed not from the earth but from man's interior needs. Of the two a new manhood will be generated which will blot out all discords. Does she wonder, then, at the devoutness of his worship of woman, and how he longs to kiss her sweet representative feet, and press them to his bosom? Tell him that she believes this. * May 2 [ca. 1879?]: He is knocked down by a severe bronchitis which prevents him going to New York. He hopes to recover his freedom speedily, and use his freedom as she can easily divine. Her indiscretion doesn't amount to anything observable except when she uses the phrase, "it won't pay, I fear." She should dismiss all her timidities or fears in her relations with him. He will be able to release her from that bondage, in so far at least as it is a very annoying one. Meanwhile he rejoices in her sweet memory. * May 18 [ca. 1879?]: Alice James to Miss Hathaway: Her father has had an attack of illness since Miss Hathaway last saw him. He is confined, but the doctor hopes to get him out of doors. He asked me this morning for the first time if there were any letters to him. Showed him your envelope which he recognized the hand. He told me to write to you saying that as soon as he could read her letter he would. If she writes again, try not to cause much anxiety. #6251-bc

His book will be ready to publish in a month's time. It will be about 300 pages, and is handsomely printed. Mr. Clark says they will commence the printing in a fortnight. #6251-m

The title of his lecture is "Thomas Carlyle, Sketched from Personal Remembrance. " Enclose two notices of his Carlyle lecture, one from the Newport News and the other form the Newport Mercury . The longer one was written by Rev. C. J. Brooks. Will be with him March 8. #6251-m

Henry James, Jr. is not in the country, and can't do as Mr. Longfellow did, even for the great promise you hold out to him. He has always been a very good boy, as doubtless your mother will be able to say of you when you grow up, that you have always been a very good girl. But his handwriting is not nearly so good as mine. #6251-p

Attached to a group of letters written to Albert Leffingwell from William H. Bogart, E. W. Archibald, and Titus M. [Coan]. * Henry James to Albert Leffingwell: Pains him to hear him say that he is very unhappy. He should have had more pain in hearing him say, "without adequate cause or reason, I am very happy." Because to be happy would imply a good degree of indifference to the universal lot. He is infinitely more interesting to his imagination for being unhappy, because he is not self-centered but feels his unity with all mankind. There may be some special physical or moral cause for his present ennui . Ennui is the disease of the Age. Maybe, unknown to him, his heart is more active than usual in making its want felt, its sovereign want. If there is anybody present to his senses who could reveal the want to him, then his trouble would be definite. For woman's natural rectitude is so great that it is seldom she gives anything with her eyes wide open. But he may have the happiness of a truly religious mind, which he takes him to be. The lower parts of man must be satisfied for the higher parts to be happy. Harlots are sure to go to the kingdom of God before such deluded persons. Discusses in detail his religious beliefs and how they relate to society. He is feeling this spiritual hunger and thirst. Women don't feel as acutely as men their moral rottenness, because women are not apt to acknowledge an outward and abstract law, but only an inward and concrete life, but they feel their spiritual need even more acutely than men, for they feel it not reflectively as most men do simply, but in their actual flesh and bones. What you want above all things is to meet this vague need and give it palpable form. * William H. Bogart to Albert Leffingwell: Has learned the lesson of respecting opinions from which he differs. How can they change the great law of supply and demand? Discusses in detail his philosophy of economics and society. * William H. Bogart to Albert Leffingwell: Thanks for article published in Popular Science . His writing is not ephemeral, but long-lasting. * E. W. Archibald to Albert Leffingwell, 1879 October 9: Meet me at this office when it is convenient in reference to a letter he received from England. * T. M. Coan to Albert Leffingwell, 1883 October 30: Should have answered his kind letter and invitation earlier, but is waiting to pick a day or two out in November for Dansville. * T. M. Coan to Albert Leffingwell, 1883 November 23: He is safely home, back from Albion and Dansville. His paper will be slow in appearing, but hopes to put something into it that will be of substantial service. * T. Munson Coan to Albert Leffingwell, 1884 June 28: #6251-bc

His son lives at 3 Bolton Street, Piccadilly W. London, England, and he will be obliged to you for sending him the transcript. #6251-m

Thanks him for the kindly feelings he expressed. Does not know of the Mr. King appointed Counsel, or whether he is a relative of Dr. King. Dr. King is looking for his son who was wounded in the Cats battle. #6251-m

Wants to thank him for his review in Old and New, but is laid up with a wounded foot and can only respond by letter. Accepts all he has to say, but feels that the fault is not so clearly James's as Wasson thinks. Can't satisfy him with just an hours talk. Won't he come and stay with him? He will give him a comfortable bed and will leave off talking as early in the evening as he pleases. #6251-m

Obliged for proofs, which he returns. His son will take it as a favor if they always send the proofs to him instead of his son. #6251-a

Dictated. Their friend, F. W. H. Myers, died yesterday, but he wants to thank him for the photographs sent to him. The figures are really glorious, ideally significant of human nature before its eating of the fruit from the fatal tree. They form, moreover, a singularly interesting matter for correspondence between the male and female type. Would like to see some of his other figures. Won't appoint a meeting yet to ask for them to dine together because of the Myerses. #6251-a

Sends end of lecture XX and will add an Appendix to the book in a few days. Sends back some additional comments.. You may proceed to the casting as soon as possible. #6251-a

Recently read his article which gave him some interest. Quotation on page 344 and 345 interested him particularly. His bad health prevents him from taking up any active work, but hopes that he would make the exhaustive study of Swedenborg. James agrees Swedenborg being a bearer of light. Staggered by his hugging so close the scriptural text. #6251-a

Have been reading The Initials which draws a full and remarkable picture of the German-European civilization. But needs to read further. Is reading Browning's Ring and the Book . He remembers in 1911 or 1912 that his uncle, Henry James, gave a lecture on this book. Has never heard or read the lecture. Does she know where the lecture can be found? #6251-m

Thinks "Elizabeth" is Mrs. Jack Chapman. Can't think who "F.F." refers to. #6251-m

Edna is, more than anyone else, in spirit and in fact, one who has kept alive the spirit of Henry James. Begs her to accept a check as a little present, not from him, but from the dear old uncle Himself! #6251-m

Sends Edna a reprint of an article [not present] he wrote which was published in a Quaker publication, the only journal that was interested in his article. #6251-m

Believes Alice is sending her a package. Also passing along something to the woman who knows more about James than anyone else. Don't fuss or protest or he will never visit her again! Everyone is finding out that everywhere buried in "uncle H." is human drama. Just read a good stage version of The American by Helen Van Volkenburg. #6251-m

Tells of scene when he met uncle Henry in Liverpool on April 27, 1906 when he told of the San Francisco earthquake. He remembers meeting Coburn, then. Sorry that he doesn't own Picture and Text . Uncle Henry was a formidable art critic. Quotes from memory one of Henry James's lines: "Whether Rubens was legitimately married to Nature, or was merely carrying on one of the most unregulated of flirtations is a question." The same knife-like penetration was in his literary criticisms. Continues with him memories of Lamb House, of Conrad, Ford Maddox Ford (awful man), Gosse, Kipling, Wendell Holmes, and so on. Discusses how Conrad spoke so many languages. Finishes by telling how accurate and good Leon Edel's biography is. #6251-m

Wants to answer the many questions left untouched after their last meeting. Discusses the "significance" of The Initials , the Browning lecture, "The Novel in 'The Ring and the Book,' " and his other lectures on Browning. #6251-m

Trying to identify "Mrs. F. F." and "Elizabeth." #6251-m

Thanks Alice for the successful identification of "Mrs. F. F.," a problem that has haunted her for years. Comparing Dickens with James. Gives details regarding the discovery of Mrs. F. F. September 16: Misfiled her letter along with domestic troubles, which explains how it has not been mailed for months. A copy of Eight Uncollected Tales of Henry James is on its way to her. #6251-m

Discusses the numerous references to the name "Tunstall." #6251-m

Explains why she has not acknowledged the aids Wade has given her over the years. Then discusses why she did not read James until 1916. She is on the trail of at least one James item: a Japanese translation. #6251-m

A copy of Eight Uncollected Tales of Henry James will be mailed to him. Interested to know that she is on the trail of the idea of Henry James being translated into Japanese. Rutgers University Press sent two to Japan. Hopes to in the not too far distant future publish a small book, very simple, not abstruse, that will clear up the general hocus-pocus about "the world of Henry James"! #6251-m

Distresses that he has not received Eight Uncollected Tales of Henry James . Hopefully soon. Proves that James was absolutely in Italy latter 1873 to early June 1874. Probably in London by November 1874. Gap in his whereabouts from June 23 to July 28, 1874. #6251-m

* Edna Kenton to Donald Brien: Trying to find any information on the London run of "The School of Scandal" from April to August 1874. This is just a note enclosing a carbon of her letter to Rosenzweig. Hopes he enjoys reading it as much as she did writing it. Discusses James childhood friend, Perry, a mildly interesting character. * Edna Kenton to Dr. Rosenzweig (2 copies): Thanks for his study, "The Ghost of Henry James. " Discusses James's "injury" in 1861. Kenton states that neither Harvard nor James's turning to "the art of fiction" was a result of his injury. His interest in literature predated his injury, and she provides specific details. Evidence in overwhelming. #6251-m

As she read his letter yesterday, she thought of Giotto's circle, which helped her in a chapter for her book. Quotes Henry James about letting things come of itself. Then provides another quotation of Henry James describing Bill. #6251-m

A draft of a letter expressing excitement at their possible meeting. #6251-m

Writing to them both. Alice and she should discuss Trollope, whom Henry James hoped to see the English Balzac emerge. As for Bill, Kenton tells him that she is the only reader so far as she knows or can deduce or infer who ever began her type of research with the simple open question, the question Henry James asked always before any artist's collected work: "What is his intention? What is he writing about?" And the answer was just as simple and open, "that everywhere, buried in uncle H., is human drama." It is just that simple. Discusses recent discovery of a letter from Henry James to Thomas Sergeant Perry regarding Henry and William James's desire to go to college. #6251-m

Alternate version with slight variation to previous letter. Includes mention of Nellie Van Volkenburg as a dramatist in Chicago for the Little Theatre. #6251-m

Turns to Bill for some possible help with the illustrations not accredited to Coburn for the preface to The Golden Bowl, The Ivory Tower, and The Sense of the Past ; she always assumed that they were Coburn's. Possible that he was consulted either by Scribner's or by Percy Lubbock over these illustrations? Don't research it, just tell her if he remembers any of it. #6251-m

Finally got letter which dealt firmly with the issue of Coburn. She always knew there was some "bamboozling" with those frontispiece illustrations. Discusses the moment Henry received Bill in Liverpool after San Francisco earthquake. Tells little anecdote about the New York Sun's reporting of the earthquake. Asks about James's essays on Sargent and Daumier. Saturday January 3, 1953: his note was forgotten under heavy pressure of grave family illness and later death. Received letter from Italy written for Percy Lubbock which claims James had no hand in the choice of the frontispieces. #6251-m

Wants to know if he could clear up a cloud just risen in her sky regarding her Henry James book in process. Questions whether Alvin Coburn did all the frontispieces for The Novels and Tales . Who selected the photographs? Does he have any knowledge of the source of the photographs? Was Henry James involved? Kenton would be infinitely grateful for this information. #6251-m

Sorry she doesn't have Daisy Miller as it was borrowed and never returned. Talks of "Bundle of Letters " published by Loring in paper covers, 1879. Also first edition of life of Nathanial Hawthorne, etc. Assumes his first editions are English ones; if not, hers are at his service: The Portrait of a Lady and many other books. Percy Lubbock, editor of Letters , is a goose; he chose only letters to or by persons he thought of consequence. What fools editors make of their biographical victims, providing examples. Originally enclosed with Henry James to Katherine Loring, 1897 December 27. #6251-a

Sending him promised autograph of James with letter 1897 December 27 from him. They did use rooms and she tells all about Rye and "Lamb House. " She would like to help make a perfect collection of James's works as there are so few. Originally enclosed with Henry James to Katherine Loring, 1897 December 27. #6251-a

* Fanny Mecker letter: James embodies the belief that is satisfying to the heart and intellect. The truth of the Divine Natural Humanity or the Lord is manifest in the flesh. My life is served daily from this eternal Spring. * Anonymous letter: Discusses Henry James under the pledge of secrecy. James is a great man. Seems to delight in the mysteries of women. His philosophy is an easy one: a virtuous woman is a myth and the prostitution of women in not owing to mind but wants of the stomach and something lower, and can be taught to gratify their desires with the same impunity that men do. Never intended to marry but was forced to. Last winter he had a woman where he could put his hand on and off her for a long while, then introduced her to the mysteries, he says, "to her infinite delight." Discusses details of his various women. Writer has letters, which proves all he says. * C. Robinson, September 1869: Has obtained the correspondence he mentioned. Meet him at any point on the R.R. * J. C. Hathaway, September 18, 1869: Have the document which was copied. If any inquiries are made, keep dark. If he has to write to anyone employ an amanuensis. P.S. Please get some one to copy letter of C. Robinson. Don't copy it yourself. Attached to a group of handwritten documents entitled, "Social Studies 1869," regarding Henry James Sr., including notes by J. C. Hathwawy, C. Robinson, and an anonymous letter discussing the James' philosophy of the nature of women. #6251-bc

Funeral can be Wednesday at cemetery. Hay has wired Henry James. Asked for size of coffin for proper building of vault. They secured a lot near Shelley's grave and close to Mrs. [Stroup?]. #6251-ac

Sorry, her bag has not been found. Given police information and they feel case hopeless. Sympathy for her. Her presence in Venice could not have prevented final catastrophe. No doubt Woolson's falling was accidental. She fainted before she fell. #6251-ac

Just in from making sick calls. No sign of her bag. There is an office at the Capitol where lost things are taken. #6251-ac

Appreciates her tireless research. Her penetrating intuitions continue to result in disclosures undreamed of at the beginning of the century. Thanks for the gift of Eight Uncollected Tales of Henry James . #6251-m

In anticipation awaits Eight Uncollected Tales of Henry James . Noticed a recent review of Eight Uncollected Tales of Henry James in The New Yorker . Pleased that he has done anything to help in this Jamesian criticism and research. He enjoys the friendship of her colleagues, Donald Brien and Leon Edel. P.S. Allan Wade feels he wasn't correctly cited by her in the article, "The Seer's Art, " in The Atlantic Monthly . #6251-m

Thanks for the gift and the clarifying notes. Discusses the possibility of Henry James collaborating on an article, but he has no evidence beyond the Atlantic Monthly Index. #6251-m

Forwarding the royalty from Eight Uncollected Tales of Henry James for the period ending April 30, 1953. #6251-m

Sympathy letter at the loss of her cousin Mrs. C. F. Woolson. Heard Constance speak often of them all. Loved and admired her. Grace Carter's name and most of leading families in Cooperstown familiar to her. #6251-ac

Has been talking to Edna Kenton about her Henry James work. Kenton would like to get her complete work on him out by the centenary of Henry James's birth. Should be a monumental piece of great importance. The problem, though, is of finances. Looking for anyone who would want to contribute to the project. Nelson Rockefellor? #6251-m

Excuse his discourtesy for not writing earlier about her gift of Eight Uncollected Tales of Henry James . Great delight to have all of James's fiction on his shelves. Interested in her introduction. She has a wonderful memory for all the details in James's many writings. #6251-m

Hopes that she could add something to her collection of Jamesiana. Doesn't think the essay is very good, except for perhaps beginners in James. [Essay not present] #6251-m

Replying to enquiry about ghost stories. If a ghost story succeeds in making his flesh creep, it has succeeded. There is a renewed interest rather than belief in spirit phenomena. The most convincing ghost story he has ever read was "The Turn of the Screw " by Henry James. #6251-m

Sorry it turned out the way it did, but the only way he would do it would be to debate it or not do it at all. However, it is not a personal debate. Doesn't like being away from New York, but likes the Department at Kansas very much. Looking for volume two of the Henry James biography. #6251-bi

Thanks for note which is a relief. No longer has a copy of his piece, but guesses that he wasn't entirely clear, or, at any rate, left it open for misreading. #6251-bi

Brief article (p. 40) discussing poor reception at St. James's Theatre of Henry James's play. In Oversize box W-5. #6251-ak

From The Book Lover . #6251-ad

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Original located in Barrett personal papers. #6526-f

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Notes written on the outside covers of two envelopes which held articles or documents. One envelope is entitled, "1869: The Secret of Henry James of Boston " and the other envelope is entitled, "A Dead Man's Secret: Henry James. "

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Images are of the front covers of James's International publications. #6251-ak

Framed portrait. Oversize box R-1. #6251-aq

Inscribed by Henry James: "To Douglas Ainslie in very friendly remembrance" #6251-bd

Inscribed by Henry James: "Yours till death." Includes 8x10 reproduction and a printed reproduction appearing on "Supplement to Literature, April 20, 1898." #6251-g

Photograph from Cora Crane's "Oxenbridges" scrapbook. #5505-e

Portrait of Henry James at "Age 65." Three photographic reproductions in folder. [Location to be determined by Greg]. #6251

Includes brochure for the Annual Meeting of the Gleeson Library Associates, University of San Francisco, March 22, 1970, which used image for brochure cover. #6251-k

Two copies of the "Supplement to The Bookman " with photograph attached. #6251-ak, #7436-a

Photograph by E. O. Hoppe. Inscribed by Henry James: "To his friend Price Collins." Oversize box W-5. #6251

Printed reproduction: "Courtesy, Charles Scribner's Sons." #6251-m

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Photograph of portrait with John Singer Sargent's autograph below photograph. Oversize W-5. #6663

One photograph and one reprint of John Singer Sargent's sketches. #6251-ak

Original at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston, Massachusetts. By William James, nephew of Henry James. #6251-ak

Caption below photograph: "Mrs. Ward and Henry James in the Garden at Stocks. From a photograph by Miss Dorothy Ward." #6251-ak

Includes ANS by D. M. Ward, "With kind regards as promised." #6251-ak

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Photograph by Alice Boughton/Library of Congress. #7267-a

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From the portrait by John La Farge. Book-jacket of Henry James by Bruce R. McElderry.

One image includes caption: "Henry James from a bronze by Derwent Wood in the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge." The second image is of bust in the Tate Gallery, London. #6251-ak

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Oversize box W-5. #6251-m

Oversize box W-5. #6251-m

With inscription by Henry James on verso of photograph. #6251-g

With inscription by [Henry James] on verso: "A bit of the garden of Lamb House trying to look alluring." #6251-ac

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With note on back in unknown hand: "James's desk at Lamb House, Rye, which contained the secreted wallet (now in the Barrett Collection) found by Dan Laurence." [Wallet not in collection] #6251-ad

Includes photographs of Edmund Gosse [?]. #6251-au

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Dr. Baldwin was a friend of Henry James and an American expatriate in Florence, Italy. #6251-m